The Brooklyn Nets have had several centers come through the borough since 2012. Most Nets fans think of former franchise star Brook Lopez when reflecting on big men of the past. However, once upon a time, there was a center who elevated himself into one of the most promising paint dwellers in team history: Jarrett Allen.
Jarrett Allen joined the Nets when the team selected him with their 22nd overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. Allen had just come off a strong debut season with the Texas basketball program, averaging 13.4 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 33 games. For his efforts, he earned a spot on the 2016-17 Big 12 All-Freshman team.
The Nets knew Allen had potential, but the rapid improvement he made was a pleasant surprise. After building a strong foundation during his rookie year, Allen averaged 10.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game during the 2018-19 season. He was a rim-protecting and slam-dunk highlight reel, getting clutch blocks on major stars like LeBron James and leaping for a fair amount of high-flyers:
Nothing was better than hearing YES Network commentator Ian Eagle yell, "That's a man's Jam!" after one of Allen's dunks. Admittedly though, Allen found himself on the receiving end of such plays too.
Allen took another leap forward during the 2019-20 season, holding averages of 11.1 points and 9.6 rebounds. The 2020-21 season was supposed to be Allen's and the Nets' marquee year, as Kevin Durant had returned from his Achilles injury, and Allen continued to provide stout support on the inside. However, the Nets made a regrettable move to trade Allen to the Cleveland Cavaliers to make way for James Harden.
Allen ended his final Nets stint in 2020-21 averaging 11.2 points, 10.4 rebounds, and a career-high 1.6 blocks.
Allen continued to blossom after leaving the Nets
It was tough to see Jarrett Allen leave Brooklyn. He was a fan favorite and showed improvement year after year. His down-to-earth personality and groundedness were attractive to Nets fans and players alike. In 2018, former point guard Spencer Dinwiddie described the courteous Allen as "a breath of fresh air" who was not afraid to "consistently be himself."
While Allen's future with the Nets came to an end, his growth did not.
Allen broke out during the 2021-22 season with the Cavs, averaging 16.1 points, a career-best 10.8 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks per contest. As a result, he earned his first All-Star appearance. Allen had another career year in 2023-24, totaling averages of 16.5 points and 10.5 rebounds.
Jarrett Allen was a Brooklyn legend, and no matter where his career takes him, Nets fans will forever root for "The Fro."