Gregory Brown Jr.

Gregory Brown Jr., one of Albuquerque's most extraordinary basketball players and community leaders, died in a car accident on Friday, June 14, 2024, at age 51. Gregory was born in Albuquerque, NM on November 26, 1972 to Mary Francis Brown and the late Gregory Brown Sr. 

Greg attended St. Mary’s Catholic School before moving on to Albuquerque High School where he was coached by Jim Hulsman and led them to a state championship. He went on to play for New Mexico Junior College, where he was the conference player of the year. Greg then joined the University of New Mexico Lobos from 1992 to 1994, making an instant impact on the team. 

Over the years, Greg won numerous awards, including being selected as the WAC Player of the Year and winning the national Frances Pomeroy Naismith Player of the Year award, given to the best player in the country under 6-feet tall, during his senior season at UNM when the Lobos won the WAC regular season title. In addition, Greg was a 2007 inductee into the UNM Alumni Lettermen's Association Hall of Honor and a 2008 inductee into the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame. 

While at UNM, Greg earned his Bachelor's Degree and then went on to earn his Master's Degree. He became a teacher and a coach in the community, where he made a lasting impact. 

Above all, Greg was a great father and always gave back to the community in many ways. He trained many children in sports, academics, and leadership, working with countless kids on a volunteer basis. You could always call on him, and he was known for his bubbly personality and being loved by so many, young and old.

“We are shocked and broken-hearted,” said his mother, Mary F. Brown.

Greg was preceded in death by his father Gregory Brown Sr. and is survived by his children, Amaya Brown and Amari Brown; his mother, Mary Francis Brown; his sister, Helynsia Brown; and many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. The Brown family would like to thank the community of Albuquerque, the entire Brown, Anderson, Defreeze and Dunn family, and all of the fans and friends who loved Gregory. A public memorial will be held on July 13th, 2024 at The University of New Mexico basketball arena, The Pit.