Click here to listen to an interview with Head Coach Troy Larson.
Justin Brookens of the Iowa Lakes Men's Basketball Team has been named 1st Team All-American by the National Junior College Athletic Association. Brookens also earned Iowa Community College Athletic Conference co-player of the year and was player of the week for the conference three times this season.
Brookens averaged 20.1 points per game, 4.9 assists per game, and 4.0 rebounds per game. He shot 48.8% from the field, 51.7% from the three point line, which was second in the country, and 87.6% for free throws. He also finished the season with 107 made three-pointers, which was fourth in the country.
Brookens was honored to be recognized, "I'm happy I received the award; it shows me the work I've been putting in is paying off and anything is obtainable with dedication and perseverance. Also, I'm happy to be able to win the award as a Laker. It's good for the tradition of the school. Playing as a Laker is a cool experience; the road trips, the preparation before the games is a next level feeling. The coaching staff before every game makes sure we're well prepared for every opponent. They were well organized and had everything laid out for players regarding scouting reports and individual film time. Also, they were good people off the court always communicating with the players just trying to pick their brains and always uplifting our spirits. My teammates were good teammates; we all supported each other whether it's on the court or off. We always looked out for each other and made sure each other we were taken care of. We never left anyone behind it was like having 12 brothers."
Head Coach Troy Larson was proud of his sophomore, "Very excited for JB to earn this award. He works tirelessly on his game and had a great year for us. He is a great leader and was a large part of our team's success this year. His ability to make the right play with the ball was very important to our team. He is one of the better offensive players that I have coached. His work ethic, character, and ability to get it done in the classroom makes him a complete college student athlete. Looking forward to seeing where he ends up completing his college career."
Brookens is currently uncommitted but is receiving NCAA Division I offers for the upcoming season.
The Lakers ended their season with an overall record of 26-6 and 11-3 record in conference.
For a full list of the NJCAA All-Americans go to: https://www.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/2019-20/div2/all-americans/index
OTHER: Interview with Head Coach Troy Larson attached.
Photo ID: Photo of Justin Brookens attached.
MEDIA: For more information, please contact Head Men's Basketball Coach Troy Larson at (712) 362-7915 or the Iowa Lakes sports information office at (712) 362-7928.