Upon graduation, Babson athletes typically land work in a range of professions, from financial services to marketing to entrepreneurship. But a select few have the privilege of continuing their playing careers.
Joey Flannery ’17 in his Real Murcia uniform
Enter men’s basketball sensation Joey Flannery ’17, who in August signed to play in Europe with Real Murcia, a third-division squad in Murcia, Spain. Men’s basketball began at Babson in 1931, and only one other player, Jim Pierrakos ’92, has signed a professional contract in Europe. “It’s special being able to prove to people that it doesn’t matter what level you played at in college,” says Flannery. “If you have the talent and work ethic, then you can reach your goals. I’m excited to represent Babson and Division III basketball.”
Teams from France and Germany also expressed an interest in Flannery, but he was drawn to the university city in southeastern Spain. “I realized that Real Murcia is the perfect club for me to try and establish myself in a highly respected league and country,” says Flannery. “The city is rich in culture and history, and I can’t wait to immerse myself in everything it has to offer while playing basketball at the professional level.”
Flannery’s storybook career included being the eighth-highest scorer in Division III history, twice earning national player of the year honors, and leading his team to the program’s first national championship in 2017. One of the most decorated players in Division III history, he was a three-time National Association of Basketball Coaches and D3hoops.com first-team All-America selection and the only four-time NEWMAC Player of the Year. He is Babson’s all-time leader in points (2,620), made field goals (863), and made free throws (689).
“My time at Babson prepared me well because of the different experiences and situations I was put in both on and off the court,” he says. “I played and guarded nearly every position over the last four years, so I hope to be ready for any matchup.”
With a fall start to the European season, Flannery arrived in Spain for training camp in early September. “I want to see how good of a player I can become in the coming years,” says Flannery. “I want to keep challenging myself until I can’t play anymore.” —Scott Dietz, associate director of athletics