Former NBA executive Grunwald named director of athletics at McMaster

HAMILTON – McMaster University has hired former NBA executive Glen Grunwald as its new director of athletics and recreation.

Grunwald joins McMaster after serving as executive vice-president and general manager of the New York Knicks. Grunwald is also a former senior vice-president and GM of the Toronto Raptors.

“Welcoming Glen to McMaster is great news for our students, student athletes and the community,” Sean Van Koughnett, McMaster’s associate vice-president and dean of students, said in a statement. “Glen brings a wealth of experience to McMaster.

“He shares our commitment to providing the best athletic and recreation opportunities for all McMaster students, while ensuring our teams are ready to compete at the highest levels.”

Grunwald had also been a practising lawyer, a member of the bar in two states and holds an MBA and Bachelor of Science from Indiana University and a JD from the Northwestern School of Law. Grunwald also helped Indiana capture the ’81 NCAA basketball title.

“It is a privilege to be joining one of the world’s best universities, home to one of the country’s top athletics programs,” Grunwald said. “McMaster has a long tradition of athletic excellence.

“I am especially eager to join the highly-regarded staff working to enrich the recreational and sports opportunities for our students and to take full advantage of the world-class facilities on campus.”