Jarrett Allen

Jarrett Allen (born April 21, 1998) is an American professional basketball player for the Cleveland Cavaliers. Standing 6’9″ with a sprawling 7’5″ wingspan and a signature afro, Allen has solidified himself as one of the most reliable and efficient centers in the NBA. Known for his rim protection, high-percentage finishing, and “down-to-earth” personality, he is the defensive heartbeat of a Cavaliers team currently contending for Eastern Conference supremacy.

As of the 2025-26 NBA Season, Allen is playing arguably the best basketball of his career, highlighted by a massive statistical explosion and a burgeoning partnership with recently acquired guard James Harden.

 

Early Life 

A native of Round Rock, Texas, Allen was a standout at St. Stephen’s Episcopal School before spending one season with the Texas Longhorns. 

NBA Career

Brooklyn Nets (2017-2021)

In 2017, the Brooklyn Nets selected him 22nd overall. He quickly became a fan favorite in Brooklyn for his shot-blocking and blue-collar work ethic.

Cleveland Cavaliers (2021- Present) 

In January 2021, Allen was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers as part of the massive four-team trade that initially sent James Harden to the Nets. While many saw him as a “throw-in” at the time, Cleveland viewed him as a foundational piece. They quickly locked him into a long-term contract and eventually signed him to a three-year, $91 million extension in 2024.

On February 1, 2026, Allen recorded a historic career performance in a 130–111 victory over the Portland Trail Blazers. He exploded for 40 points, 17 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 blocks while committing zero turnovers, becoming the only player since 1983 to record such a stat line.

Since the trade that brought James Harden to Cleveland on February 3, 2026, Allen’s production has reached new heights. In their first two games together, Allen averaged 25.5 points on nearly 75% shooting, thriving as the primary lob threat for Harden’s elite playmaking.

Playing Style: “Ethical Basketball”

Allen famously described the Cavaliers’ style of play as “organic, free-range, ethical basketball”—a joke that perfectly captures his unselfish approach.

• The Rim Protector: Using his length rather than raw bulk, Allen is an elite vertical spacer who alters shots without frequently fouling.
• The Roll Man: He is one of the league’s most efficient “screen and roll” finishers, often ranking near the top of the NBA in field goal percentage (averaging over 70% in the 2024-25 season).
• High IQ Passing: Unlike many traditional centers, Allen is a capable playmaker from the post, often finding cutters or open shooters when the defense collapses on his rim runs.

Personal Life 

Despite his $20 million annual salary, Allen is known for being one of the most grounded athletes in professional sports. He is a self-described “serial hobbyist” with interests that include:

• Tech & Coding: He built his own computer and has a passion for 3D printing and woodworking.
• Pop Culture: He is an avid fan of Pokémon, sci-fi novels, and juggling.
• Advocacy: He is a frequent advocate for the Cleveland Animal Protective League, where he adopted his two cats, Sasha Fierce and Silo.

Career Accolades

• NBA All-Star: 2022
• Gold Medalist: 2016 FIBA Americas U18 Championship
• NBA Rising Star: 2019