Bree Purganan is more than just the mother of Jalen Green, one of the brightest young talents in the NBA. She is a Filipino-American nurse, entrepreneur, advocate, and the guiding force behind her son’s rise to professional basketball fame. Born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, and later relocating to California, Bree Purganan played a significant role in nurturing Jalen’s athletic career while managing her responsibilities as a healthcare professional and businesswoman.
While Jalen Green is known for his impressive plays on the court as a shooting guard for the Houston Rockets, it is Bree Purganan’s influence, support, and upbringing that helped shape his path. Her story as a mother, mentor, and successful woman deserves just as much recognition.
Who is Bree Purganan?
Bree Purganan is a Filipino-American woman residing in California, USA. She is a nurse by profession and also actively involved in entrepreneurship. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm) and weighing approximately 60 kg (132 lbs), Bree Purganan is known for her athletic past and balanced lifestyle. She is admired for her ability to juggle a demanding career and a loving family.
Originally from the Philippines, Bree Purganan moved to the United States and settled in California. She has lived in several cities including Merced, Livingston, and Fresno. Her multicultural background has deeply influenced her family, particularly her son Jalen, who proudly embraces his Filipino roots.
Bree Purganan comes from a close-knit family. Her mother, Julia Durbin, was a teacher, and she was later raised by her stepfather Bob Durbin after her mother’s remarriage in 1995. She has a sister, Kristie Purganan Canon, and a brother, Josh Bass. Bree Purganan’s family values are strongly embedded in how she raised her children.
A Loving Mother and Professional Woman
In addition to being a nurse, Bree Purganan is also a thriving entrepreneur. Despite her busy schedule, she ensures her family receives her undivided attention. She is married to Marcus Green, a former basketball player who played with DeShawn Stevenson in high school. Together, they have three children: Jalen Green, Raquel Purganan, and Jurnee Tyra.
Bree Purganan’s influence on Jalen Green’s life is immeasurable. She not only supported him emotionally but ensured he had the tools and resources to develop his basketball talent. Marcus Green also played a huge role as a stepfather, guiding Jalen through his basketball journey since seventh grade. Marcus gifted Jalen his first pair of Jordans after his first dunk in eighth grade and often took him to recruiting camps.
Bree Purganan’s Advocacy and Philanthropy
Aside from her roles as a mother and professional, Bree Purganan is also an advocate for health issues, particularly breast cancer awareness. She is associated with Bree’s Foundation for Breast Cancer Research and uses her network to support patients and families battling cancer. Through charity work and outreach programs, Bree Purganan shows that her compassion extends far beyond her home and profession.
She also shares her life experiences and values on her Facebook profile, where she posts about her family, professional life, and advocacy. Her public presence is filled with messages of encouragement and support, especially for Filipino communities and healthcare workers.
Her Influence on Jalen Green’s Career
Jalen Green, born on February 9, 2002, was the second overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Houston Rockets. Today, he is not only one of the league’s promising stars but also among the few players of Filipino descent in the NBA, joining the ranks of Raymond Townsend and Jordan Clarkson.
In a heartfelt interview, Jalen Green credited his mother, Bree Purganan, for instilling a strong work ethic in him. Her dedication and belief in his potential served as the foundation for his discipline and resilience. Jalen often mentions that his mother’s advice and support have kept him grounded, even as fame and recognition surrounded him.
Bree Purganan has been present at several of Jalen’s NBA milestones. She is known to be his biggest supporter, always expressing pride in his accomplishments and determination. Whether it’s attending NBA events or speaking to the media, Bree’s message is consistent—Jalen worked hard for his success, and nothing came easy.
Connection to the Philippines
Jalen’s cultural identity is closely tied to Bree Purganan’s Filipino heritage. Although he grew up in the United States, Bree made sure he understood and appreciated his roots. In August 2022, Jalen visited Manila as an Adidas global ambassador during the JG4 Manila Tour. While he is not eligible to play for the Philippine national team, Jalen openly celebrates his Filipino identity.
Bree Purganan spoke in interviews about how meaningful it is for her to see Jalen recognize and honor his ancestry. She emphasized that it made her proud to see him connect with the place where her grandfather was from. This cultural awareness is something Bree instilled in all her children from a young age.
FAQs About Bree Purganan
1. What is Bree Purganan’s profession?
Bree Purganan is a licensed nurse and also an entrepreneur actively involved in health-related advocacy.
2. Where is Bree Purganan originally from?
She was born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, and later moved to California, USA.
3. How many children does Bree Purganan have?
She has three children: Jalen Green, Raquel Purganan, and Jurnee Tyra.
4. Is Bree Purganan active on social media?
Yes, Bree maintains a Facebook profile where she shares moments from her personal and professional life.
5. What is Bree Purganan’s connection to the NBA?
She is the mother of Jalen Green, a professional basketball player for the Houston Rockets in the NBA.
6. What kind of advocacy work does Bree Purganan do?
She is involved in breast cancer awareness and fundraising through Bree’s Foundation for Breast Cancer Research.
7. Who is Marcus Green in relation to Bree Purganan?
Marcus Green is Bree’s husband and Jalen Green’s stepfather. He played a significant role in Jalen’s basketball development.
8. What are Bree Purganan’s physical features?
She is 5 feet 5 inches tall and weighs about 60 kg. She has dark brown eyes and black hair.
9. What role did Bree play in Jalen’s success?
Bree Purganan provided unwavering emotional, moral, and logistical support throughout Jalen’s basketball journey.
10. How does Bree feel about Jalen’s cultural roots?
She is proud that Jalen embraces his Filipino heritage and continues to represent it in the NBA.
Read also: Zach Justice Age: Full Biography, Career Highlights, and Net Worth
