Who Is Bree Purganan, Jalen Green’s Mother? Her Inspiring Life Story

When people talk about NBA star Jalen Green, they often talk about his speed, skill, and confidence. But behind all of that is one strong woman. Her name is Bree Purganan, Jalen Green’s mother. She is the heart behind his journey.

Bree is not just a proud mom. She is a nurse, a hard worker, and a woman with deep roots. She helped shape Jalen’s mindset long before the NBA lights came on. In this article, we will explore her life step by step.

We will talk about where she comes from, her culture, her early struggles, and her career. This first half focuses on her early life and personal journey. The second half will continue with her family and her role in Jalen’s success.

Bree Purganan Quick Bio

Where Was Bree Purganan Born and Raised?

Bree Purganan was born in Ilocos Sur, a quiet and beautiful province in the Philippines. It is a place known for strong families, deep culture, and simple living. Bree grew up in a close home where family always came first.

Life was not flashy or easy. Like many Filipino homes, her family believed in respect, hard work, and helping each other. These values stayed with Bree as she grew older.

She was raised alongside her siblings and learned early how to be strong and responsible. Those early lessons later shaped how she raised her own children.

Bree Purganan’s Filipino Roots and Heritage

Bree is proud of her Filipino roots. Her culture plays a big role in who she is today. Family, faith, and strength were always part of her daily life.

Her mother, Julia Durbin, worked as a teacher. She was a strong role model. Bree learned discipline and care from watching her. These values later became part of how Bree raised Jalen.

Today, Bree Purganan, Jalen Green’s mother, has passed this cultural pride on to her son. Jalen often speaks proudly about being part Filipino, and that pride comes directly from Bree.

When Did Bree Purganan Move to the United States?

As a young woman, Bree made a life-changing move. She left the Philippines and moved to California, USA. It was not easy. A new country means new rules, new culture, and new pressure.

Like many immigrants, Bree had to work hard to build a stable life. She balanced learning a new system while holding on to her values from home. That balance made her stronger.

This move laid the ground for her future. It also later gave Jalen the chance to grow up in the U.S. with big dreams and real opportunities.

Bree Purganan’s Education and Love for Sports

After settling in California, Bree focused on school. She attended Merced College, where she studied nursing. School life was busy, but she stayed focused and driven.

At the same time, Bree loved sports. She played college basketball, along with soccer and cross-country earlier in life. Sports taught her teamwork, discipline, and mental strength.

This love for sports later became important. It helped her understand Jalen’s passion for basketball. She knew what dedication looked like because she lived it herself.

From Student to Nurse

Bree completed her associate degree in nursing in 1999. A few years later, in 2002, she earned her licensed vocational nurse (LVN) certification. This was a big achievement.

She worked in many health centers over the years. These included emergency care, mental health care, and public health roles. She worked at places like Madera Community Hospital and Corizon Health.

Even with long shifts and stress, Bree stayed strong. Her nursing career shows her deep care for others. It also shows the same work ethic she later taught her son.

Bree Purganan, Jalen Green’s Mother, Is Also a Philanthropist

Bree Purganan isn’t just a nurse — she’s also someone who gives back. She started Bree’s Foundation for Breast Cancer Research to help people fighting cancer. This work means a lot to her.

With her medical background, Bree knows how hard cancer can be for patients and families. That’s why she works to raise money, support research, and spread awareness. She uses her own time and energy to help others in need.

Even though she became known as Jalen Green’s mother, Bree has her own path. Her charity work proves that she’s someone who cares deeply about people, even outside her own family.

Who Is Bree Purganan Married To?

Bree is currently married to Marcus Green, a former basketball player. He played high school basketball with NBA player DeShawn Stevenson and knows the game well. But more than that, he became a strong father figure in Jalen’s life.

Marcus supported Jalen from a young age. He would take him to basketball camps, train with him, and encourage his dreams. He even bought Jalen his first pair of Jordan sneakers after a dunk in their backyard. Their bond is real and strong.

Before Marcus, Bree was reportedly married to Steve Tucker, but there’s not much public information about that relationship. What we do know is that Marcus Green stepped up, and Bree’s family became stronger because of it.

All About Bree Purganan’s Three Children

Bree is a mother of three children, and she’s proud of each one.

• Raquel Purganan is her eldest daughter. She is married to Steve Tucker, and they live in Fresno, California.

• Jalen Green, her middle child, was born on February 9, 2002, in Merced, California. He became a top NBA player and now plays for the Phoenix Suns.

• Her youngest daughter, Jurnee Tyra, was born in 2011. Even though she’s still young, she already shows a love for basketball, just like her big brother.

Bree raised her kids with love, values, and strength. She stayed firm through all the ups and downs, and her children clearly admire her for it.

How Bree Purganan Raised a Future NBA Star

So how did Bree help raise one of the NBA’s top young stars? It all started at home.

Jalen said that Bree was his first defender — literally. They used to play basketball in the driveway, and Bree would guard him with all her heart. She wasn’t just playing — she was teaching him how to stay sharp, stay focused, and never give up.

She also pushed him to work hard. Bree always told Jalen to “go get it,” and that message stuck with him. He learned early that nothing is handed to you — you have to earn it.

Today, when people cheer for Jalen Green, they are also cheering for the love and lessons that came from his mom — Bree Purganan, Jalen Green’s mother.

What Jalen Green Says About His Mom, Bree Purganan

Jalen never hides his love for his mom. In many interviews, he credits Bree for his mindset, work ethic, and mental strength.

In a touching quote from 2022, he said:

“I got my work ethic from her, my mindset from her. She used to tell me to go get it, and that is what I did… Since a young age, I felt like winning was everything.”

Bree was also quick to defend her son when people said his success came easy. In an interview, she said:

“They don’t know he has fought and practised and worked to be where he’s at. It wasn’t handed to him.”

The bond between them is strong. Jalen often brings Bree to NBA events, and she is always cheering from the sidelines — proud and full of love.

Where Is Bree Purganan Today?

As of 2026, Bree Purganan lives in California — mostly in the Fresno or Merced area. She continues to work as a nurse and run her cancer research foundation. Her days are busy, but she still makes time for her family.

She’s also a proud grandmother. In May 2024, Jalen Green and his partner Draya Michele welcomed a baby girl. Bree now enjoys being a grandma and watching her family grow.

Even though she keeps a low profile, Bree’s impact is big. She shows up at Jalen’s games and supports his career from the heart. She stays rooted in her culture, in her work, and in her role as a mom.

Final Thoughts

Bree’s story is more than just about being a mom. It’s about being strong, staying humble, and working hard — even when no one is watching.

From growing up in a small town in the Philippines to raising an NBA star in the U.S., Bree’s journey is powerful. She never chased fame, but she earned respect. She balanced being a nurse, a mother, a wife, and a leader.

Many young moms, nurses, and Filipino women look up to her. And they should. Bree Purganan, Jalen Green’s mother, reminds us that greatness often begins at home — with love, effort, and quiet strength.

(FAQs)

How old is Bree Purganan, and when is her birthday?

Bree Purganan has never shared her exact age or birthday. Even in 2026, she keeps this part of her life private.

Does Bree Purganan have Instagram?

No. Bree Purganan is not on Instagram. She prefers a private life and mainly uses Facebook, not public social platforms.

Where was Bree Purganan born?

Bree Purganan was born in Ilocos Sur, Philippines. This is where her strong Filipino roots come from.

How many kids does Bree Purganan have?

She has three children. Her kids are Raquel Purganan, Jalen Green, and Jurnee Tyra.

What is Bree Purganan doing now in 2026?

In 2026, Bree Purganan lives in California. She still works as a nurse, runs cancer awareness work, supports Jalen’s NBA career, and enjoys life as a proud mom and grandmother.

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