July 24, 2006
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Former Iowa basketball standout Greg Brunner has signed a professional contract to continue his basketball career in Pepinster, Belgium. Brunner will travel to Pepinster in early August to begin preparing for his first professional season, which runs through June.
“This is the best opportunity I have to play professional basketball right away,” said Brunner. “I plan to play this season in Belgium, gain professional experience, then try to come back and make the NBA next year.
Earlier this summer, Brunner played in an NBA summer league in Las Vegas, competing for the Minnesota Timberwolves. “I played well in Las Vegas and worked my way into the starting line-up,” said Brunner. “I didn’t score a lot, but did what they asked. It was a good experience.”
“This is a great opportunity for Greg to continue his playing career at the professional level,” said Iowa Coach Steve Alford. “He has worked hard to display his talents and create this opportunity. We know he will represent himself and the Iowa basketball program in a positive manner.”
A native of Charles City, Brunner led the Hawkeyes in both scoring (14.1) and rebounding (9.2) last season, shooting 45.4% from the field. He shared team MVP honors after helping Iowa post a 25-9 overall record. The Hawkeyes won the Big Ten Conference Tournament after placing second during the regular season.
Brunner’s career totals include 1,516 points and 990 rebounds. He is Iowa’s career rebounding leader and ranks 10th in scoring. Brunner led the Big Ten in rebounding and earned first team all-conference honors in 2006. He was also a third team academic all-American and he was named to the Big Ten’s all-tournament team.
As a four-year starter Brunner helped Iowa win 79 games over the past four seasons, winning over 20 games in both 2005 and 2006. The Hawkeyes advanced to post-season play each year of Brunner’s career, including NCAA Tournament bids in 2005 and 2006.