By Ron Rop
Local Sports Journal

Evan Bruinsma has become a world traveler since his graduation from the University of Detroit-Mercy back last spring.

The graduate of Western Michigan Christian High School is about to set out on another adventure as his professional basketball career will be taking him to the small country of Luxembourg.

Previously, Bruinsma, a 6-foot-8, 215-pounder, was playing on the small island country of Malta. In seven weeks, Bruinsma appeared in eight games. He averaged 33 points and 15 rebounds per game.

But such numbers caught the eye of the coaching staff of a team called Amicale Steinsel, which competes in the first division of Luxembourg … the Total League. He decided to make the move.

“I enjoyed my time in Malta,” Bruinsma said. “I was able to visit an amazing country, meet lots of really good people and play the sport I love.”

Since graduating from college, Bruinsma has been to Los Angeles for an Australian Football League combine, Australia to be scouted more closely by the AFL and then to Malta to begin his professional basketball career.

Now it’s off to Luxembourg next week for the second stop on his world basketball tour. Amicale Steinsel is tied for first place in the Total League with a 14-1 record in the 10-team league. The team’s next scheduled game is Jan. 9.

“A few days before Christmas I got an email saying there was a possibility of moving to another location,” Bruinsma said. “The next day I found out I was offered a contract in Luxembourg and decided to make the change.”

Luxembourg is bordered by France, Belgium and Germany.

“I am looking forward to a step up in competition.”