Jarrett Allen Bio
Jarrett Allen (born April 21, 1998) is an American professional basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Texas Longhorns and was selected 22nd overall by the Brooklyn Nets in the 2017 NBA draft. In January 2021, he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of the four-team blockbuster James Harden trade. In February 2022, Allen was named to his first NBA All-Star Game. Allen has the highest offensive rating of any player in NBA history with a minimum of 15,000 minutes played.
Early Life and Background
Jarrett Allen was born in San Diego, California, and attended Walsh Middle School in Round Rock, Texas. He began his high school career at Round Rock High School before transferring to St. Stephen’s Episcopal School in Austin, Texas, where he played for three years and won two SPC championships. Allen was a highly regarded player in high school, earning a five-star recruit rating and being ranked as the 15th overall player in the Class of 2016. He showcased his talent by participating in the 2016 McDonald’s All-American Boys Game and later committed to the University of Texas at Austin to play college basketball.
Path to Basketball
During his freshman year at the University of Texas, Jarrett Allen averaged 13.4 points and 8.4 rebounds per game. Despite the team’s disappointing performance, he had standout moments, including a 22-point, 19-rebound game against Kansas. Following his freshman season, Allen decided to enter the 2017 NBA draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility. He was selected by the Brooklyn Nets with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the draft, marking the beginning of his professional career.
Jarrett Allen Career
Early Career (2017–2021)
Jarrett Allen signed his rookie scale deal with the Brooklyn Nets on July 20, 2017. He made his NBA debut on October 20, 2017, becoming the second-youngest player in franchise history. Throughout his early years with the Nets, Allen developed into a key player, joining the starting lineup for the first time on January 25, 2018, and recording a career-high 16 points and 12 rebounds in that game. He continued to improve, setting personal bests in points and rebounds over the following seasons.
Breakthrough (2021–Present)
Allen’s career took a significant turn when he was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 14, 2021. He quickly established himself as a vital player for the team, signing a multi-year contract with the Cavaliers in August 2021. In the 2021-22 season, he achieved career highs in several statistical categories, including points, rebounds, and blocks per game. His performance earned him a spot in the 2022 NBA All-Star Game, solidifying his status as one of the league’s top centers.
Notable Works and Milestones
Jarrett Allen’s signature achievements include being named an NBA All-Star in 2022 and earning accolades such as Third-team All-Big 12 in 2017 and McDonald’s All-American in 2016. He has consistently contributed to his team’s success, helping the Cavaliers improve their defensive efficiency and overall performance.
Jarrett Allen Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Jarrett Allen has received several nominations and accolades, showcasing his talent and impact on the court.
Jarrett Allen Awards Won
Jarrett Allen has won notable awards, including being named an NBA All-Star in 2022, which highlights his exceptional performance and recognition in the league.
Jarrett Allen Family
Jarrett Allen is married to Jordyn January, with whom he tied the knot in July 2025. The couple got engaged in 2023, marking a significant milestone in their relationship.
Personal Life
Allen’s father, Leonard, was drafted by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1985 NBA draft and played at San Diego State. His older brother, Leonard Jr., also pursued basketball at the collegiate level, committing to Baylor University before taking a leave of absence in 2017. Allen’s family has a strong basketball background, contributing to his passion for the sport.
