NBA star Jalen Brunson says his friends knew exactly what not to ask of him in high school

Jalen Brunson said he chose basketball over a social life in high school. Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images Jalen Brunson said his parents taught him to be realistic about what he could take on during high school. The New York Knicks player ultimately had to decide what he was willing to give up. He said his friends played an unexpected role in helping him stay on track with his goals. New York Knicks ' Jalen Brunson says the right environment made it easy for him to put basketball first in high school. In a joint appearance with his mother on the " Things No One Tells You " podcast, Brunson said the support he received from those around him helped lay the foundation for his success.