Seawolves Shootout legend Gnad honored

ANCHORAGE – A member of the University of Alaska Anchorage’s inaugural Hall of Fame class, former Seawolf All-American Hansi Gnad was honored Thursday evening during halftime of UAA’s Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout game between UAA and Weber State.

Unable to attend the inauguration ceremonies in 2001 because of distance and professional basketball obligations, Gnad was presented with a copy of his hall-of-fame plaque and received a standing ovation from the Sullivan Arena crowd.

Originally from Langen, Germany, Gnad wound up a brilliant four-year career at UAA in 1987 by being named to the NCAA Division II All-America First Team as well as UAA Athlete of the Year.  A three-time All-Conference selection and two-time All-Region selection, Gnad finished his career as the team's No. 1 all-time leading scorer (1,666 points) and rebounder (1,124). His jersey number 33 was retired during the 1987 Shootout.

Drafted in 1987 by the Philadelphia 76ers, Gnad signed with the Miami Heat in 1988. Following that he had a long and prosperous pro career in Europe. A 10-year member of the German National basketball team, Gnad captained the 1992 German Olympic basketball team in Barcelona, Spain. Having played in a record 183 games with the German National team, Gnad was awarded the title of Honorable Captain For Life.

He and his wife, Selke, have two children - Justin and Robin.