Jaylen Brown Conquers NBA in 2024, Sets Sights on Even Bigger Goals!

As the year 2024 winds down, SI is spotlighting standout athletes in each sport, celebrating those who have achieved greatness through their exceptional performances or impactful actions beyond the playing field.

In June, when NBA commissioner Adam Silver declared him the Finals MVP, Jaylen Brown was momentarily overtaken by emotion. Surrounded by teammates who had witnessed his perseverance through endless trade speculations, and cheered on by the Boston fans who had initially booed his draft pick in 2016, Brown’s challenging season concluded with him lifting the most prestigious award in the league.

Years ago, such an outcome seemed unlikely. Brown, a dynamic player from UC Berkeley known for his athleticism but criticized for his shooting, faced skepticism from the start. Local fans had hoped the Celtics would trade their pick for someone like Jimmy Butler or choose Kris Dunn, a tough point guard from nearby Rhode Island. As Brown’s game evolved, discussions often centered on his trade value rather than his contributions to the team. Whenever a major star became available, Brown’s name was inevitably linked in trade rumors.

Despite the challenges, Brown continued to improve, earning an All-NBA selection in the 2022-23 season and subsequently signing a record five-year, $285 million contract with the Celtics. His defensive skills are solid, and his three-point shooting has improved significantly. Initially averaging below two assists per game, Brown’s average rose to nearly five this season. His sacrifice and leadership were pivotal in integrating key additions like Jrue Holiday and Kristaps Porzingis, driving the Celtics to a 64-win season, a dominant playoff run, and ultimately an NBA championship.

This season, Brown is on track for another All-Star selection, averaging 23.4 points per game. However, it’s his accomplishments beyond the court that enhance his standing as SI’s NBA Player of the Year. Influenced by legends like Bill Russell and Muhammad Ali, Brown has engaged in significant off-court activities. He has spoken at Harvard about education and race, participated in MIT’s Director’s Fellows program, and launched the 7uice Foundation to boost educational opportunities in underprivileged areas. His Bridge Programs offer educational and leadership workshops across various cities, targeting Black and Brown communities.

Recently, following his financial success, Brown took action against economic inequality in Boston by initiating plans to establish a “Black Wall Street” in the city. In August, this vision materialized as the Boston Xchange, a project aimed at creating $5 billion in generational wealth for communities of color. “Investing in the creator and the culture strengthens entire cities,” Brown stated in an interview with The Boston Globe.

Beyond his advocacy, Brown also took a bold step in the business world by founding 741 Performance after a public disagreement with Nike, which he implied played a role in his exclusion from the U.S. Olympic team. Rejecting $50 million deals from established brands, Brown launched his own company. His first shoe, the Rover, was introduced this fall, embodying his philosophy of ownership and innovation. “Understanding ownership and value is crucial for future athletes,” Brown remarked. “It’s time to think different and be different.”

Moreover, Brown continues to be a key figure in the NBA Players Union as its vice president, where his influence extends to shaping the future of the league. Following in the footsteps of his role models, Brown is crafting a lasting impact both on and off the court.

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