When people talk about basketball sensation Jalen Green, most mention his incredible athleticism, powerful scoring, and growing NBA fame. But few know the remarkable woman behind the scenes—his mother, Bree Purganan. While she may not be a public figure, her presence has been vital in Jalen’s journey from a passionate child to an international sports icon.
This blog explores Bree Purganan full life story—her origins, career, family values, and the unwavering dedication she has shown as a mother. Her journey from the Philippines to America is one of resilience, strength, and unconditional love.
Bree Purganan Personal Profile
- Full Name: Bree Purganan
- Nationality: Filipino-American
- Ethnicity: Filipino
- Profession: Nurse, homemaker, entrepreneur
- Marital Status: Married to Marcus Green
- Children: Raquel Purganan, Jalen Green, Jurnee Tyra
- Mother: Julia Durbin
- Siblings: Josh Bass and Kristie Canon
These details paint a broader picture of Bree family roots and strong cultural identity. She has built her life through love, sacrifice, and strength, closely bound to both her Filipino upbringing and American experiences.
Bree Purganan Early Life and Background
Bree Purganan grew up surrounded by strong family values, cultural traditions, and a close-knit community. Her early life instilled in her a deep sense of resilience, humility, and responsibility—traits that would shape her future as a devoted mother. Like many Filipinos in search of better opportunities, Bree immigrated to the United States. Though the transition came with emotional and financial challenges, she remained determined and focused. Her journey from the Philippines to America laid the foundation for a life defined by hard work, sacrifice, and unwavering love for her family.
Childhood in the Philippines
Bree Purganan was born and raised in the Philippines, a country rich in tradition and familial bonds. She grew up in a modest environment, surrounded by close-knit family members and a culture that places a strong emphasis on respect, humility, and perseverance.
From a young age, Bree demonstrated responsibility and independence. Her early experiences taught her how to face life’s challenges with strength and optimism—qualities that would later define her motherhood.
Immigrating to the United States
Like many Filipinos seeking a better life, Bree migrated to the United States, bringing her dreams and values with her. The move wasn’t easy—adjusting to a new culture, environment, and lifestyle came with emotional and financial challenges. Yet, Bree remained focused on her goals.
Her journey to America was fueled by a desire to create a better future for herself and her family. She worked hard to build a stable life while staying deeply connected to her Filipino roots.
Bree Purganan’s Career in Healthcare
After settling in the United States, Bree Purganan pursued a career in healthcare, becoming a licensed nurse. Known for her compassion and dedication, she worked long hours to support her family while caring for others. Her role in the medical field reflected her nurturing personality and strong work ethic.
Becoming a Nurse
Once settled in the U.S., Bree pursued a career in nursing—a field that demands compassion, endurance, and dedication. Her work in healthcare not only provided financial support for her family but also highlighted her nurturing nature.
Being a nurse meant long hours, physical demands, and emotional stress. Yet, Bree handled her responsibilities with grace. Her dedication to serving others extended beyond her job—it influenced how she raised her children, especially Jalen.
Managing Work and Parenthood
Balancing a demanding healthcare job with motherhood is incredibly challenging. Bree managed it all with remarkable strength. She was there for Jalen’s school events, basketball practices, and important milestones, even if it meant sacrificing sleep or personal time.
This level of commitment left a lasting impression on Jalen. Her ability to juggle work, family, and life’s challenges shaped his perspective on hard work and responsibility.
Raising Jalen Green: A Mother’s Unwavering Dedication
From the beginning, Bree Purganan saw something special in her son, Jalen Green. She noticed his natural athletic ability and encouraged him to follow his passion for basketball while maintaining discipline in school and life. Bree was deeply involved in his early training and never missed an opportunity to support his growth. Her belief in his talent, combined with unwavering emotional and moral support, gave Jalen the strength to pursue his dreams. Her dedication played a crucial role in shaping him into the NBA star he is today.
Early Years and Discovering Talent
Jalen Green was born on February 9, 2002, in Merced, California. From a young age, he showed signs of athletic excellence. Bree noticed his energy and coordination and encouraged his involvement in sports.
Rather than push him too hard, Bree supported Jalen’s choices and interests. She allowed him to explore his passion for basketball, enrolling him in youth leagues and helping him find the right mentors. Her encouragement was the foundation of his confidence.
Instilling Core Values
Bree wasn’t just focused on Jalen’s athletic growth—she wanted him to grow into a humble, disciplined, and respectful individual. She emphasized academics, taught him the importance of listening, and made sure he understood his cultural heritage.
These values helped Jalen remain grounded even as his popularity soared. His humility and respectful demeanor, often noted by coaches and fans, are a direct reflection of Bree parenting.
A Strong and Supportive Family Unit
Bree Purganan built a strong and supportive family environment that nurtured Jalen Green’s growth on and off the court. . This unified family support system played a vital role in shaping Jalen into a grounded and focused athlete.
The Role of Marcus Green
Bree later married Marcus Green, who became a stepfather figure and mentor to Jalen. Marcus, who had basketball experience himself, played an important role in guiding Jalen through the ups and downs of competitive sports.
Their blended family worked together to build a nurturing and supportive environment. Bree ensured that Jalen had emotional and moral support at home, giving him the stability to thrive in the public eye.
Bree’s Other Children
Bree is also the mother of Raquel Purganan and Jurnee Tyra, in addition to Jalen. Each child shares a close bond with Bree, and she instilled in all of them the importance of love, unity, and perseverance. Her nurturing spirit wasn’t reserved only for Jalen—it touched the lives of all her children.
Bree Purganan’s Present Life and Continued Influence
Today, Bree Purganan continues to play a meaningful role in Jalen Green’s life, even as he thrives in the NBA spotlight. Though she maintains a low public profile, her presence remains constant behind the scenes—offering emotional support, guidance, and encouragement. Bree often attends Jalen’s games, celebrates his milestones, and stands by him as a trusted confidante. Her influence is deeply felt in Jalen’s humility, discipline, and respect for his roots. Bree’s story continues to inspire many, especially within the Filipino-American community, as a testament to quiet strength and devoted motherhood.
Staying Close to Her Son
Despite Jalen’s demanding NBA schedule and celebrity lifestyle, Bree remains closely involved in his life. She attends games, travels when possible, and is always just a phone call away. Her emotional presence helps Jalen stay focused and balanced.
Jalen often expresses his appreciation for his mother. In interviews, he refers to her as his hero and describes how she shaped his outlook on life. Their bond is strong, built on years of trust, guidance, and mutual respect.
Private Life with Public Impact
Although Bree avoids media attention, she has gained admiration from fans, especially within the Filipino-American community. Many see her as a role model—proof that behind every successful athlete is a strong, selfless parent.
Jalen Green’s Rise to Fame and Bree Key Role
Jalen Green’s rise to basketball stardom was not an overnight success—it was the result of years of hard work, determination, and his mother Bree Purganan unwavering support. From his standout performances in high school to his bold decision to join the NBA G-League instead of playing college basketball, Bree stood firmly by his side. She provided the emotional foundation, stability, and encouragement he needed to chase his dreams fearlessly. When Jalen was drafted 2nd overall by the Houston Rockets in 2021, Bree pride and presence spoke volumes. Her quiet strength and belief in her son’s potential were key driving forces behind his success on and off the court.
High School Stardom
Jalen’s skills became evident in high school. He quickly rose to become one of the top-ranked basketball players in the country. Bree supported him through rigorous training, academic responsibilities, and the pressure of national recognition.
Choosing the G-League Over College
Jalen made headlines when he chose to join the NBA G-League Ignite team rather than attend college. It was a bold move, but Bree trusted her son’s decision. She stood by him, offering both emotional and logistical support throughout this non-traditional route.
2021 NBA Draft
In July 2021, Jalen Green was selected 2nd overall in the NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Bree was right there beside him, celebrating a dream that had been years in the making. That moment wasn’t just about Jalen’s achievement—it was a tribute to Bree dedication, love, and perseverance.
Embracing Filipino Heritage
Bree Purganan has always taken pride in her Filipino roots and made it a priority to pass that cultural heritage on to her children. She raised Jalen Green with a strong sense of identity, teaching him to honor and celebrate his Filipino background. As Jalen’s fame grew, so did his connection with Filipino fans around the world. He often speaks positively about his heritage and credits his mother for instilling those values in him. Bree cultural influence has not only shaped Jalen’s character but also strengthened his bond with the global Filipino community, who proudly see him as one of their own.
Cultural Identity
Bree has always been proud of her Filipino heritage and made sure to pass that pride on to her children. Jalen embraces his Filipino background, often speaking positively about his roots. His popularity in the Philippines continues to grow, with Bree being a beloved figure among Filipino fans.
Celebrated by the Community
Filipino communities across the world celebrate Bree for her role in raising one of the NBA’s few players of Filipino descent. She symbolizes the strength and dedication of immigrant mothers who work behind the scenes to create stars.
Overcoming Challenges as a Mother
Bree Purganan journey through motherhood was filled with challenges that demanded both emotional resilience and physical endurance. As a single mother during Jalen Green’s early years, she worked tirelessly in her demanding nursing career while managing the responsibilities of raising her children. Financial struggles, long shifts, and emotional stress were part of her daily life, but she never allowed those hardships to define her. Instead, Bree remained focused on providing a loving, stable home where her children could thrive. Her strength and sacrifice became the foundation on which Jalen built his confidence and success, proving that behind every rising star is a parent who never gave up.
Financial and Emotional Struggles
Raising a child alone for many years, while working in a stressful profession, presented numerous hurdles. Bree had to manage bills, parenting, and emotional labor all on her own. Her journey reflects the struggle many single mothers face, yet she rose above each obstacle.
Mental Strength and Sacrifice
Her story is one of courage. Bree never gave up, even when circumstances were tough. She sacrificed her own comfort to provide Jalen with opportunities. That kind of love and commitment is what truly defines her legacy.
Conclusion: A Quiet Hero in the Spotlight’s Shadow
Bree Purganan may not seek fame, but her life and sacrifices have made a lasting impact not only on Jalen Green but on everyone inspired by their story. She is a symbol of strength, humility, and enduring love. From a humble upbringing in the Philippines to raising a globally recognized NBA star, Bree has demonstrated what it means to be a true hero.
Jalen Green’s success is a reflection of Bree values, support, and belief in him. Her story reminds us that behind every champion is someone who believed first—and that someone, in Jalen’s case, is Bree Purganan.
Just as Bree Purganan played a pivotal role in shaping her son Jalen Green’s journey to NBA stardom, another moving story lies behind Avielle Janelle Hernandez. Discover how this young girl’s life has been shaped by love, tragedy, and legacy in our full insight on Avielle Janelle Hernandez.