Knicks star Jalen Brunson marries his high school sweetheart at the Ritz Carlton

• Brunson and Ali Marks met while attending Adlai E. Stevenson High School
• He is coming off a career-best season that saw him help NY reach the playoffs 
• DailyMail.com provides all the latest international sports news 

New York Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson got married to his high school sweetheart Ali Marks at Chicago‘s Ritz Carlton.

Multiple players that Brunson, 26, has shared the court with during his time with both the Knicks and in college with the Villanova Wildcats were in attendance for the event including Ryan Arcidiacono, Julius Randle, Derrick Rose, RJ Barrett, Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo.

‘We wanted to bring all of our closest friends [and] family together in a city that means so much to both of us,’ Brunson told PEOPLE, adding that it’s ’emotional to see everyone important to us in the same room.’ 

Marks echoed the sentiment when she said: ‘We wanted it to be a big big party: celebratory and joyful, with lights, lasers, a fun DJ, good food, good drinks.’

According to wedding planner Carrie Zack the couple wanted a vibe that was similar to night out at one of their favorite spots instead of a traditional wedding celebration.

Another important part of the wedding was ‘Many bars and bartenders so none of the guests have to wait in line.’

The couple originally met while attending Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire, Illinois and remained together despite attending different colleges.

Brunson had a well-documented career at Villanova, while Marks on the other hand attended the University of Illinois.

‘She’s always been by my side and I’m lucky to have her,’ Brunson said.

‘I’m excited to celebrate this special milestone with all of our closest friends and family, who have been so supportive over the many years of our relationship. 

‘There’s a lot of shared history. I’m looking forward to finally calling Ali my wife!’ 

Brunson is coming off of the best statistical and perhaps most impactful season of his career as well.

In his first season with the Knicks after departing the Dallas Mavericks as a free agent Brunson averaged 24 points, 6.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds as he led the Knicks to the second round of the NBA playoffs before falling defeat to the eventual Eastern Conference Champion Miami Heat.