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Iowa Lakes Men's Basketball Player Justin Brookens has been named 2019-2020 ICCAC Student-Athlete of the Year. The annual award honors one male and one female student-athlete in recognition of athletic achievement, academic success, and community involvement.
Brookens just completed his sophomore season at Iowa Lakes Community College. During his time at Iowa Lakes made a big impact. He led the team to a 26-6 record and an 11-3 finish in conference play. The Lakers finished the season ranked #10 in the NJCAA polls. Brookens was named First Team All-Region, finished the season being named 2019-20 Co-Division II Men's Basketball Player of the Year, and a First Team NJCAA All-American.
Larson went on to say, "With all of the schools and teams competing in the ICCAC and all of the high caliber athletes, Justin being recognized as the Male Student-Athlete of the Year is just such an honor. This prestigious award for Justin is a testament to his hard work and dedication."
Brookens was thankful for the honor, "I want to acknowledge all the people who have helped me along my journey including my friends and family, my coaches, and my teammates. All of them have made me a better teammate, person, and player. I cherish each moment I have had on and off the floor. Iowa Lakes will always have a special place in my heart."
On the floor, Brookens did all of the things coaches want their point guards to do. His shooting was one of his biggest assets. He shot 51.7% from the three-point line to finish second in the country. He finished fourth nation-wide in made three pointers with 107. He was fifth in the country with a free throw percentage of 87.6%. He was a good floor general with his ability to initiate the team's offense, but he also had the sense of when to create offense to help get the team going.
Off the court, Brookens also excelled in the classroom. He earned Second Team Academic All-Region, signifying a GPA between 3.0 and 3.49. Brookens often assisted his teammates in the classroom as well. He was very active in the community. He served his community by helping elderly residents with chores, assisting at the local food bank, and instructing youth basketball clinics.
Brookens will continue his educational and athletic career at NCAA Division I Western Illinois University this fall.