June 16, 2026, 3:01 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Jalen Brunson led the New York Knicks to their first NBA title since 1973. The 29-year-old, who was trained by his father and current Knicks assistant Rick Brunson as a child, is someone who seeks additional advantages in nutrition and recovery. FITBOOK reveals which ones he has found for himself.
No Red Meat Since College
Jalen Brunson’s journey to a more conscious diet began during his time at Villanova University, where he learned the importance of proper nutrition for athletic performance. A key pillar of his current discipline is avoiding certain types of meat: The NBA star has not eaten red meat (such as pork) since his freshman year in college. “I learned during my college years how to eat, what to consume, and what to feed my body,” the Australian “Men’s Health” quotes Brunson from a 2024 interview with GQ regarding this formative phase.1,2 At the time of the interview, he was well on his way to making his first All-Star team.
Brunson describes his current diet as “predominantly plant-based.” A decision that apparently wasn’t easy for him: “I miss bacon, I’m not going to lie to you,” he said. While Brunson abstained from poultry for a time as a pescatarian, he eventually returned to eating chicken after experiencing a “strong craving for chicken wings” for about two years.
Diet Change Boosted Brunson’s Morning Energy Levels
The switch to a predominantly plant-based diet has, according to him, had a noticeable impact on his morning energy levels. Brunson notes that since changing his diet, he has experienced a significant increase in energy, rather than feeling sluggish and not wanting to get out of bed.
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This Is What Knicks Hero Jalen Brunson Eats for Breakfast
A key factor for this energy boost is his prioritization of nutrients right after waking up. The NBA champion places great importance on consuming protein- and fiber-rich foods first thing in the morning. His breakfast routine includes a sugar-free, fiber-rich cereal to gain the necessary energy for his athletic performance.
For strength athletes, protein is the central “building block” for muscles. FITBOOK nutrition expert Beke Enderstein advises strength athletes to increasingly rely on plant-based proteins (such as legumes, nuts, and whole grains) to prevent deficiencies and reduce inflammation. Brunson’s “predominantly plant-based” diet takes advantage of this benefit.
Nutrition can also be used to optimally fuel the so-called supercompensation. It is assumed that the body wants to repair damaged muscle proteins and replenish energy stores after each exertion. Sports scientists like Dr. Dr. Michael Despeghel argue in FITBOOK that training success is ruined if this “magic window” of about 30 minutes after exercise is allowed to pass without providing the body with proteins and carbohydrates.
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He Seeks “Additional Advantages” and Is a Fan of Limiting Bad Habits
For long-term success, NBA hero Jalen Brunson, who voluntarily gave up $113 million, combines two principles in his diet. On one hand, he sees it as a tool to possibly gain an “additional advantage” on the court.
On the other hand, he emphasizes that it’s important to “limit bad habits,” but that a single “cheat day” doesn’t ruin progress. For him, it’s perfectly fine to occasionally eat something that’s not on the plan, as long as one remains disciplined most of the time. Nutrition experts also advise pragmatism: There’s no need for “gram-precise” planning as long as the foundation is solid.
This Is the Recovery Technique Jalen Brunson Uses on His Way to the Title
The conscious selection of food is only part of Jalen Brunson’s success strategy. He also leaves nothing to chance in recovery and uses the latest technology to gain an edge. This was evident during the NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs. After an injury, Brunson used a heat and vibration device called Hyperice Venom 2 Leg on the sidelines during the game to maintain blood flow to his injured knee. Originally intended for post-workout recovery, it helped Brunson lead his Knicks to a decisive victory in Game 5 with 45 points almost single-handedly.3
Brunson’s Wife Is a Doctor of Physical Therapy
In his meticulous search for even small advantages, Brunson—besides his father Rick Brunson, who has coached Jalen since childhood—likely finds real help in his wife. Dr. Ali Marks-Brunson studied kinesiology and sports science at the University of Illinois and is a doctor of physical therapy.4 With her expertise, she likely makes a significant contribution to Brunson’s consistent health approach.