Bree Purganan is more than just the mother of NBA sensation Jalen Green. She is a remarkable woman whose determination, values, and resilience have played a significant role in shaping her son’s career and character. A Filipina-American nurse, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Bree has built a life rooted in hard work and family while ensuring her children stay connected to their heritage and values.
Early Life and Journey from Ilocos Sur to California
Bree Purganan was born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines, where she grew up in a close-knit family alongside her siblings, Kriste Canon and Josh Bass. Raised by her mother, Julia Durbin, a dedicated teacher, Bree’s early life was filled with lessons about perseverance and education. Julia later remarried Bob Durbin in 1995, further shaping the family’s foundation.
Sports were a major part of Bree’s childhood. She actively played basketball, soccer, and cross-country, which instilled in her a love for discipline and physical activity. These early athletic experiences would later influence how she mentored her son, Jalen Green, as he pursued basketball.
Seeking better opportunities, Bree and her family moved to California, where she established new roots. She earned her nursing degree from Merced College, a milestone that reflected her work ethic and determination to build a better future.
Professional Career and Philanthropic Work
Bree Purganan’s career as a registered nurse is a testament to her compassion and commitment to helping others. Her dedication to healthcare extended beyond her profession when she founded Bree’s Organisation for Breast Cancer Research, a nonprofit organization focused on raising awareness and funding for breast cancer patients.
According to the American Cancer Society, over 297,000 new cases of breast cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2023 alone. Bree’s advocacy and fundraising efforts have made a tangible difference in supporting women battling this disease. Her work as both a nurse and a philanthropist highlights her desire to create a positive impact in her community.
Family Life and Personal Values
Bree Purganan is married to Marcus Green, a former high school basketball player who once played alongside NBA player DeShawn Stevenson. Marcus has been a strong presence in Jalen’s life since childhood, taking him to basketball camps, teaching him discipline, and supporting his dreams. While Jalen’s biological father, Enoch Green, is of African-American descent, it is Bree and Marcus who have provided the consistent guidance and support that shaped Jalen into a top NBA prospect.
Bree and Marcus have three children:
- Raquel Purganan, the eldest, who is married to Steve Tucker and lives in Fresno, California.
- Jalen Green, born on February 9, 2002, in Merced, California, who is now a standout player for the Phoenix Suns.
- Jurnee Tyra, born in 2011, who shares her big brother’s passion for basketball and sports.
Currently in her early 40s, Bree Purganan has an estimated net worth of around $1 million, earned through her nursing career, philanthropy, and entrepreneurial ventures. However, her focus has always been on raising her children with values of humility, perseverance, and cultural pride rather than pursuing wealth or fame.
Pride in Filipino Heritage
Bree Purganan takes immense pride in her Filipino roots, something she has passed down to Jalen Green. Jalen is one of only three NBA players of Filipino descent, following the footsteps of Raymond Townsend and Jordan Clarkson. When Jalen toured Manila in 2022 as an Adidas ambassador, it was an emotional moment for the family—a symbolic connection to their homeland and heritage.
Bree’s efforts to instill cultural awareness and identity have helped Jalen embrace his role as a representative of Filipino talent on the global stage. This connection has earned him a devoted fan base in the Philippines, where basketball is deeply cherished.
Bree’s Influence on Jalen Green’s Career
Jalen Green often credits his mother for his mental toughness and work ethic. In a 2022 interview with sports journalist Chino Trinidad, Jalen shared, “I got my work ethic from my mom. She used to tell me to go get it, and that’s what I did. Since a young age, I felt like winning was everything.”
Bree was Jalen’s first “coach,” challenging him to improve his defense and focus on every aspect of the game. Her insistence on discipline and perseverance helped Jalen develop the competitive mindset that has defined his career.
Overcoming Challenges as an Immigrant Mother
Bree’s journey as an immigrant has not been easy. She worked long hours as a nurse while raising three children, often managing the household alone while supporting Jalen’s training and tournaments. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 23% of California’s population is foreign-born, and many families face unique challenges when adapting to a new culture and environment. Bree’s determination and unwavering support for her family reflect the resilience of immigrant mothers everywhere.
Marcus Green, Jalen’s stepfather, once said in an interview, “He [Jalen] works for everything. Nothing was ever handed to him.” This work ethic, instilled by Bree, is evident every time Jalen steps onto the court.