Columbus, Ind. – Trevin Lieck, the 6-8 graduate forward and captain for the IU Columbus Crimson Pride men's basketball team, has signed a professional contract with AD Galomar, a team competing in Portugal's Liga Betclic. The announcement marks the culmination of a standout collegiate career and a significant step toward his goal of playing professionally. Lieck becomes the first IU Columbus athlete to sign a professional contract.
Lieck, a native of Madison, Wisconsin, transferred to IU Columbus for the 2025-26 season after playing at Western Colorado University. In his single season with the Crimson Pride, the quiet, hardworking forward quickly emerged as a leader on and off the court. Serving as one of the team's captains alongside teammate Damontae Thompson, Lieck brought experience, size, and versatility to the frontcourt. He consistently delivered strong performances, including multiple 19-point outings that showcased his scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and efficiency at the free-throw line.
A graduate student pursuing his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at IU Columbus, Lieck excelled academically as well as athletically. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from Western Colorado University, earned RMAC All-Academic honors, and was named to the NABC Honor Court. His return to play for longtime mentor Head Coach James Adams—whom he first played for on the Wisconsin Starz Elite AAU team as a teenager—underscored his commitment to both personal growth and team success.
"Trevin has worked very hard and put in a lot of long hours to develop into the type of player he has become," said Head Coach James Adams. "I recall the first time I met him at a youth camp. I saw a lot of raw potential and promise from his performance that led me to recruit him to play summer ball with me. I am confident he will do well at the professional level because I know he'll put in the work!"
During his time at IU Columbus, Lieck thrived in the close-knit community of the Crimson Pride. He appreciated the support from MBA classmates, professors, and university staff who attended games and followed the team's progress. Lieck emphasized the team's focus on passion, energy, and brotherhood both on and off the court. Between rigorous practices, film sessions, workouts, and physical therapy, he balanced his athletic pursuits with his graduate studies, noting how the MBA program's flexible schedule aligned well with the demands of the season.
Lieck's journey reflects dedication across multiple levels of play—from Verona Area High School and Illinois Preparatory School to Division II competition and now the professional ranks in Portugal. Known for his size, skill, and character, he is poised to make an impact with AD Galomar while continuing to represent the values instilled during his time with the Crimson Pride.
"It's always been a dream of mine to play professional basketball," Lieck said. "I couldn't have achieved this without the unwavering support and guidance of Coach Adams, who believed in me since I was a teenager; my dedicated teammates who pushed me every day; the entire athletic staff at IU Columbus; and, most importantly, my parents, whose endless love, sacrifices, and encouragement made everything possible."
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The IU Columbus Athletic Department and the Crimson Pride family extend their congratulations to Trevin Lieck on this historic milestone and wish him continued success in his professional career with AD Galomar.
