Behind every successful athlete is a family that nurtures, supports, and helps shape their path. For NBA star Jalen Green, that unwavering support came from his mother, Bree Purganan. While Jalen’s basketball skills and achievements on the court have earned him recognition worldwide, the story of his mother’s influence often goes untold. Bree Purganan’s journey from the Philippines to California, her dedication to her children, and her pivotal role in Jalen’s career reveal much about the power of family and cultural pride.
This blog post dives deep into Bree Purganan’s life, uncovering her early years, professional career, family life, and the impact she had on Jalen’s rise to NBA stardom. We’ll also explore her cultural roots, philanthropic work, and how she’s helped guide her son on his journey to becoming one of the NBA’s brightest young stars.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Heritage
Bree Purganan was born and raised in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, a province known for its rich cultural history and beautiful landscapes. Growing up in the Philippines, Bree’s early life was filled with strong family ties, community values, and a deep sense of pride in her heritage. Her mother, Julia Durbin, was a teacher, and Bree’s family was known for placing a high value on education and hard work.
Bree’s upbringing in the Philippines instilled in her a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility toward her family. She was not just a student of academic subjects but also of life’s valuable lessons, such as the importance of perseverance, sacrifice, and community.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bree Purganan |
| Birthplace | Ilocos Sur, Philippines |
| Nationality | Filipino-American |
| Spouse | Marcus Green (former basketball player, adoptive father of Jalen Green) |
| Children | Jalen Green, Raquel Purganan Tucker, Jurnee Tyra |
| Career | Nurse, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist |
| Education | Merced College, Nursing degree |
| Philanthropy | Founder of “Bree’s Organization for Breast Cancer Research” |
| Professional Life | Nurse, Entrepreneur, and Advocate for Breast Cancer Research |
| Notable Achievement | Raising Jalen Green, NBA star, and supporting his career and personal growth |
Immigration to the U.S.
As Bree grew older, she sought better opportunities and a brighter future, leading her family to immigrate to the United States. The decision to leave the Philippines and move to California was a significant one, driven by the desire for a better life and the promise of new opportunities. Bree’s family settled in Merced, California, where they began a new chapter in their lives.
The transition was not easy, but Bree adapted quickly to American life while holding on to her Filipino roots. This blend of cultures would later play a significant role in shaping Jalen’s identity and his sense of connection to his Filipino heritage.
Education and Career
Academic Pursuits
Bree attended Merced College, where she pursued a nursing degree. Her dedication to education and health was evident early on, and she worked hard to balance her studies with family responsibilities. Bree’s academic journey wasn’t just about earning a degree; it was about setting an example for her children, particularly Jalen. Her commitment to education and improving lives through healthcare influenced Jalen in many ways, showing him the importance of knowledge, discipline, and resilience.
In addition to her studies, Bree’s competitive spirit came through in sports. She played college basketball for a short time, showcasing her athleticism and passion for the game. This experience helped her understand the value of teamwork, dedication, and the hard work required to succeed—qualities that she would later instill in her son.
Professional Life
Beyond her career in nursing, Bree is also an entrepreneur and philanthropist. She founded the “Bree’s Organization for Breast Cancer Research,” reflecting her strong commitment to healthcare and community service. Through her foundation, Bree has worked to raise awareness about breast cancer and to fund research aimed at finding cures for the disease.
Her entrepreneurial spirit is also reflected in her other professional ventures, where she has balanced her career with her passion for helping others. Bree’s ability to manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining a focus on family and community makes her a remarkable example of hard work and dedication.
Family Life and Support for Jalen
Marriage to Marcus Green
Bree’s journey to motherhood was shaped by her marriage to Marcus Green, a former basketball player. Together, they created a strong and supportive family unit. Marcus adopted Jalen, and their bond is evident in how Jalen speaks about his father. Marcus played a significant role in shaping Jalen’s basketball journey, teaching him the fundamentals of the game and being there every step of the way. This partnership was crucial for Jalen’s development both on and off the court.
Bree and Marcus shared a common goal of providing their children with a supportive environment in which they could thrive. They supported Jalen’s love for basketball, knowing that his path to success would require not only natural talent but also guidance, discipline, and hard work.
Children
Bree has three children: Raquel Purganan Tucker, Jalen Green, and Jurnee Tyra. Each child has taken a different path, but all have found success in their respective endeavors. Jurnee, like Jalen, has shown an interest in basketball and modeling, while Raquel has pursued a career in her own right. Jalen’s siblings play significant roles in his life, providing him with additional support and love.
Bree’s dedication to her children is reflected in the way she supports them in pursuing their individual dreams. Whether through guidance, encouragement, or simply being there for them, Bree has been a constant presence in her children’s lives, helping them navigate the challenges and successes they face. Read about Tim Malone
Jalen Green’s Rise to NBA Stardom
Early Basketball Journey
Jalen Green’s basketball journey began in high school at San Joaquin Memorial, where he quickly earned recognition for his skills. His move to Prolific Prep, a well-known basketball academy, further accelerated his growth as a player. Jalen’s talent was undeniable, and it was clear that he had the potential to reach the highest levels of basketball.
However, what set Jalen apart wasn’t just his skill on the court—it was the unwavering support from his mother, Bree. Bree was there through it all, attending games, cheering on her son, and helping him stay focused on his goals. Her support allowed Jalen to concentrate on honing his game, knowing that his mother was there to guide him.
NBA Draft and Career
In 2021, Jalen Green was selected as the second overall pick in the NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. This was a huge achievement not only for Jalen but for Bree, who had played an instrumental role in his success. From supporting him through tough times to encouraging him to follow his dreams, Bree’s influence helped Jalen navigate the challenges of becoming an NBA player.
As Jalen’s career continues to rise, Bree remains a constant presence, attending his games and offering advice whenever needed. Her support is a key reason why Jalen has been able to remain grounded despite the pressures of professional basketball.
Cultural Influence and Filipino Heritage
Pride in Heritage
Bree has instilled a strong sense of Filipino pride in Jalen. The Green family’s visits to the Philippines, such as the JG4 Manila Tour with Adidas, highlight their deep connection to their roots. Bree has been a vocal advocate for Jalen embracing his Filipino identity, and seeing her son represent the Philippines on international stages is a point of immense pride for her.
Jalen has spoken about how his mother’s Filipino heritage has shaped his worldview and how he is proud to represent both his American and Filipino roots. Bree’s influence has helped Jalen understand the importance of his cultural heritage and to carry it with him wherever he goes.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Breast Cancer Awareness
Bree’s philanthropic efforts go beyond her foundation. Through “Bree’s Organization for Breast Cancer Research,” she has raised awareness and funds for breast cancer research, reflecting her commitment to healthcare and supporting others. Her work has touched countless lives, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of giving back to the community.
Bree’s efforts to support breast cancer research demonstrate her dedication to making the world a better place, not just for her family but for others as well. Her work shows how much she values health and wellbeing, and her commitment to this cause will continue to inspire others.
Community Involvement
In addition to her foundation, Bree is actively involved in various community initiatives. Whether it’s through organizing charity events, supporting local causes, or simply volunteering her time, Bree remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Her sense of social responsibility and her desire to help her community is a core part of who she is.
Conclusion
Bree Purganan’s journey from Ilocos Sur to becoming the mother of an NBA star is a story of resilience, love, and cultural pride. Her unwavering support for Jalen Green, both on and off the court, has been a key factor in his rise to stardom. Through her dedication to her family, her professional success, and her philanthropic work, Bree continues to inspire others.
As Jalen Green continues to shine in the NBA, Bree’s influence remains a cornerstone of his journey, reminding us all of the incredible impact a mother can have in shaping her child’s future. Bree Purganan’s story is a testament to the power of family, culture, and the relentless pursuit of one’s dreams.
