Jalen Johnson

Jalen Marquis Johnson (born December 18, 2001) is an American professional basketball player for the Atlanta Hawks of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Known for his rare blend of 6-foot-9 size, elite playmaking, and defensive versatility, Johnson is currently the cornerstone of a Hawks franchise that recently reset its roster to build around him. The 2025-26 NBA Season sees him become a legitimate NBA superstar and a first-time NBA All-Star.

Amateur Career and the Draft

Johnson was a consensus five-star recruit out of Wisconsin, where he attended Sun Prairie and Nicolet High Schools before a brief stint at IMG Academy. He played one season of collegiate basketball at Duke University (2020–21), where he averaged 11.2 points and 6.1 rebounds in 13 games. His college tenure was famously short; he opted out mid-season to prepare for the NBA Draft, a decision that initially led to questions about his “character” and draft stock.

The Atlanta Hawks selected Johnson with the 20th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.

NBA Career

Atlanta Hawks (2021-Present) 

Johnson’s professional journey was a “slow burn” defined by steady improvement:

• Early Years (2021–2023): He spent much of his rookie season with Atlanta’s G League team, the College Park Skyhawks. He eventually served as a depth piece for Atlanta in his sophomore year.
• The 2023–24 Surge: Johnson broke into the starting lineup, averaging 16.0 points and 8.7 rebounds. He recorded his first career triple-double in April 2024 against Detroit.
• The 2024–25 Ascent: Before a shoulder surgery cut his season short in January 2025, he was a leading candidate for Most Improved Player, averaging 18.9 points and 10.0 rebounds. In October 2024, he signed a five-year, $150 million contract extension.

2025–2026: All-Star Stardom

As of February 2026, Johnson has established himself as the premier “point forward” in the Eastern Conference. He currently leads the East in triple-doubles with 10 this season, trailing only Nikola Jokić (18) for the league lead. He is averaging career-highs across the board. 

Earlier in the season, he became the first player in NBA history to record a 31-point, 18-rebound, 14-assist, and 7-steal game. He also holds the Hawks’ franchise record for the most triple-doubles in a single season.

 

Career Highlights & Awards

• NBA All-Star (2026)
• 2× Eastern Conference Player of the Week (2025–26 season)
• Triple-Double Record Holder: Most in a single season in Hawks history (10)
• Fastest Triple-Double: Second-fastest in NBA history (achieved in 18 minutes vs. Denver)