Path to the pros: Former CUC men’s basketball standout Justin Greenlee lives the NBA dream while working for the Chicago Bulls

By: John Jaramillo, Director of Athletics

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is typically the dream destination for young men who grow up playing basketball, even if the probability of that dream becoming a reality is slim.

Justin Greenlee (BA '24), a four-year starter for Concordia University Chicago's men's basketball team, took a unique path from National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III hoops to his dream role with one of the most famous organizations in the world: coordinator of alumni relations for the six-time NBA champion Chicago Bulls.

Basketball has been a huge part of Greenlee's life as long as he can remember. Growing up in Brown Deer, Wis., Greenlee tried his hand at other sports, but he always came back to the hardwood. He said his desire to play led him to Concordia-Chicago.

"Being by Chicago, it was close enough from home but far enough from home," said Greenlee. "The staff also helped me see that Concordia-Chicago is somewhere I could grow as a player, grow in my faith, and grow off the court in my professional interests."

As soon as Greenlee arrived in River Forest, he began playing basketball. But by the end of his sophomore year, he knew he had to make some changes.

"I was playing a lot, but I knew I was too small to reach my potential," Greenlee admitted. "I felt like I was right there, and that summer I decided that I was going to leave nothing on the table. I was intent on giving my all and living with the results."

The above is just an excerpt-for the full story, check out the summer 2026 edition of Forester magazine.