New York (AP/KSBY) – The father of a top college basketball prospect has testified that his son was offered thousands of dollars to play at several major programs.
Brian Bowen Sr. testified Thursday at a federal trial in New York that aspiring agent Christian Dawkins told him he could get $50,000 through Joe Pasternack to play at the University of Arizona, $150,000 to go to Oklahoma State or $80,000 to go to Creighton. He said there was interest from Oregon but he didn’t recall a cash offer.
Pasternack served as the assistant coach at Arizona from 2011-2013 and then was named the associate head coach from 2013-2017.
Pasternack is now entering his second season with UC Santa Barbara. Assistant Athletic Director of Communications Bill Mahoney sent KSBY the following statement, “UC Santa Barbara has not been contacted by any of the federal investigators involved in the college basketball trial in New York City. At this time, we are focused on and excited about the upcoming season.”
Bowen was testifying at the New York City trial of Dawkins and two other defendants accused of making secret payments to recruits’ families.
Prosecutors say Bowen’s son ended up signing with Louisville after a deal was struck to pay the family $100,000.
Brian Bowen Jr. now plays professionally in Australia.
