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Corey Brewer
Corey Brewer
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Corey Wayne Brewer (born March 5, 1986) is an American former professional basketball player who serves as an assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans. He played college basketball for the Florida Gators, winning back-to-back NCAA national championships in 2006 and 2007.[1] He was named Most Outstanding Player of the 2007 NCAA tournament.[1]

Key Information

In 2007, Brewer was drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves and went on to have a 13-year NBA career.

Early years

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Brewer was born in Portland, Tennessee. He attended Portland High School, where he played high school basketball for the Portland Panthers. As a 6'7 174 lbs senior in the 2003–04 season, Brewer averaged 29.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game and was named the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) Class 2A "Mr. Basketball", McDonald's All American, and a fourth-team Parade All-American.

Considered a four-star recruit by Rivals.com, Brewer was listed as the No. 7 small forward and the No. 31 player in the nation in 2004.[2]

College career

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Brewer accepted an athletic scholarship to attend the University of Florida, where he played for coach Billy Donovan's Florida Gators men's basketball team from 2004 to 2007. Brewer was one of four key freshman members of Donovan's 2004 recruiting class who would have a dramatic impact on the Gators' fortunes over the next three seasons. Propelled by the 2004 class, the Gators would win the first three SEC basketball tournament championships in team history (2005, 2006, 2007), and two back-to-back NCAA Tournament national championships (2006, 2007) with the same starting line-up.

Brewer recorded the first triple-double in Gators team history on December 18, 2005, posting 15 points, 10 rebounds and 13 assists (the 13 assists were the most by a Gator since Jason Williams had a team record 17 in 1997).

He was projected by ESPN.com's Chad Ford to be a lottery pick to mid-first-round pick in the 2006 NBA draft if he had entered the draft that year.[3] However, Brewer, along with teammates Joakim Noah and Al Horford announced at the championship pep rally that they would be returning for their junior seasons in pursuit of their second NCAA Tournament championship.[4] Following the Gators' second NCAA championship, Brewer chose to enter the NBA draft on April 5, 2007, along with teammates Noah and Horford.

Professional career

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Minnesota Timberwolves (2007–2011)

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Brewer (right) with the Timberwolves in April 2010

Brewer was selected seventh overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2007 NBA draft. Due to the retirement of the No. 2 jersey in Minnesota worn by the deceased Malik Sealy, Brewer expressed the desire to wear No. 22 instead. He officially adopted the No. 22 for the season's summer leagues, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

On December 1, 2008, it was announced that Brewer had sustained an ACL tear during a game versus the Denver Nuggets on November 29, 2008. This would cause Brewer to miss the rest of the 2008–09 NBA season.[5][6]

Dallas Mavericks (2011)

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On February 22, 2011, Brewer was traded to the New York Knicks in a three-way blockbuster trade that also brought Carmelo Anthony from the Nuggets to New York.[7] On March 1, 2011, he was waived by the Knicks without playing a game for them.[8]

Brewer at the Mavericks' 2011 championship parade

On March 3, 2011, Brewer signed a three-year, $8 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks.[9] He went on to win his first NBA Championship with the Mavericks when they defeated the Miami Heat in six games in the 2011 NBA Finals.[10]

Denver Nuggets (2011–2013)

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On December 13, 2011, Brewer and Rudy Fernández were traded to the Denver Nuggets for a future second-round pick and a traded player exception.[11]

Return to Minnesota (2013–2014)

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On July 12, 2013, Brewer signed a reported three-year, $15 million contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves, returning to the franchise for a second stint.[12]

On April 11, 2014, Brewer scored a career-high 51 points in a 112–110 win over the Houston Rockets. In doing so he joined Michael Jordan, Allen Iverson and Rick Barry as the only players to record 50-plus points and 6-plus steals in one game.[13] He also tied Kevin Love's then-franchise record for most points in a game.[14]

Houston Rockets (2014–2017)

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On December 19, 2014, Brewer was acquired by the Houston Rockets in a three-team trade that also involved the Timberwolves and the Philadelphia 76ers.[15] Three days later, he made his debut for the Rockets against the Portland Trail Blazers. In just under 23 minutes of action off the bench, he recorded 12 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 5 steals and 1 block in a 110–95 win.[16] On February 21, 2015, he recorded season-highs of 26 points and 10 rebounds in a 98–76 win over the Toronto Raptors.[17] During the Semi Finals of the 2015 NBA Playoffs, Brewer scored 19 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and 2 assists off the bench, leading the Rockets to a decisive victory over the Clippers in Game 6 — which saw the Rockets come back from a 3–1 deficit and head to the Western Conference Finals.[18]

On July 14, 2015, Brewer re-signed with the Rockets to a three-year, $23.4 million contract.[19][20] On January 22, 2016, he picked up the team's starting small forward role.[21] On February 4, in his ninth start of the season, Brewer scored a season-high 24 points in a 111–105 win over the Phoenix Suns.[22]

Los Angeles Lakers (2017–2018)

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On February 23, 2017, Brewer was traded, along with a 2017 first round draft pick, to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Lou Williams.[23] On February 28, 2018, he was waived by the Lakers after reaching a buyout agreement.[24][25]

Oklahoma City Thunder (2018)

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On March 3, 2018, Brewer signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder.[26] The signing reunited Brewer with his former college coach Billy Donovan. On March 16, 2018, he scored 22 points and matched a career high with six steals in a 121–113 win over the Los Angeles Clippers.[27]

Philadelphia 76ers (2019)

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On January 15, 2019, Brewer signed a 10-day contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.[28] On January 25, he signed a second 10-day contract with the 76ers.[29] Following the expiration of his second 10-day contract, the 76ers parted ways with Brewer, deciding not to sign him for the rest of the season.[30]

Sacramento Kings (2019–2020)

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On February 8, 2019, Brewer signed a 10-day contract with the Sacramento Kings.[31] He went on to sign a second 10-day contract on February 18,[32] and a rest-of-season contract on February 28.[33] After spending the whole of the 2019–20 NBA season (before it was suspended) as a free agent, Brewer re-signed with the Kings on June 23, 2020, prior to the planned resumption of the season.[34]

BIG3 Basketball (2022-Present)

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In 2022, Brewer joined the Big 3 basketball league,[35] a 3-on-3 half-court basketball league. Going into the new season in 2026, he is a part of the Houston Rig Hands. Previously, Brewer played with many other teams, and in 2024, while playing for Bivouac, he won a championship. He plays in the league while still coaching for the New Orleans Pelicans and has shown no indication that he will retire from the league.

Coaching career

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On November 16, 2020, the New Orleans Pelicans announced that they had hired Brewer as a player development coach,[36] at the same time announcing his retirement from the NBA.

On September 27, 2024, Brewer was promoted to assistant coach by the Pelicans.[37]

NBA career statistics

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Legend
  GP Games played   GS  Games started  MPG  Minutes per game
 FG%  Field goal percentage  3P%  3-point field goal percentage  FT%  Free throw percentage
 RPG  Rebounds per game  APG  Assists per game  SPG  Steals per game
 BPG  Blocks per game  PPG  Points per game  Bold  Career high
 †  Won an NBA championship  *  Led the league

Regular season

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2007–08 Minnesota 79 35 22.8 .374 .194 .800 3.7 1.4 1.0 .3 5.8
2008–09 Minnesota 15 8 20.5 .411 .417 .737 3.3 1.7 1.0 .2 6.2
2009–10 Minnesota 82* 82* 30.3 .431 .346 .648 3.4 2.4 1.4 .4 13.0
2010–11 Minnesota 56 22 24.3 .384 .263 .708 2.7 1.4 1.6 .2 8.6
2010–11 Dallas 13 2 11.4 .490 .308 .714 1.8 .9 .8 .2 5.3
2011–12 Denver 59 17 21.8 .434 .260 .692 2.5 1.5 1.2 .3 8.9
2012–13 Denver 82* 2 24.4 .425 .296 .690 2.9 1.5 1.4 .3 12.1
2013–14 Minnesota 81 81 32.2 .481 .280 .718 2.6 1.7 1.9 .4 12.3
2014–15 Minnesota 24 16 28.3 .418 .195 .705 3.9 3.3 2.3 .2 10.5
2014–15 Houston 56 1 25.1 .429 .284 .764 3.6 1.7 1.1 .3 11.9
2015–16 Houston 82* 12 20.4 .384 .272 .750 2.4 1.3 1.0 .2 7.2
2016–17 Houston 58 8 15.9 .414 .234 .727 2.0 1.1 .6 .2 4.2
2016–17 L.A. Lakers 24 3 14.9 .438 .208 .750 2.2 1.5 1.0 .3 5.4
2017–18 L.A. Lakers 54 2 12.9 .453 .186 .667 1.7 .8 .8 .1 3.7
2017–18 Oklahoma City 18 16 28.6 .444 .343 .795 3.4 1.3 2.1 .3 10.1
2018–19 Philadelphia 7 3 20.0 .408 .286 .692 2.4 1.4 1.7 .3 7.6
2018–19 Sacramento 24 0 14.7 .446 .333 .733 2.5 1.2 .8 .2 4.1
2019–20 Sacramento 5 0 6.6 .500 .000 .333 1.6 .4 .8 1.0
Career 819 310 22.9 .425 .284 .713 2.8 1.5 1.2 .3 8.7

Playoffs

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Year Team GP GS MPG FG% 3P% FT% RPG APG SPG BPG PPG
2011 Dallas 6 0 3.8 .444 .333 .000 .3 .2 .7 .0 1.5
2012 Denver 7 0 16.6 .426 .300 .750 2.0 .9 1.0 .3 8.3
2013 Denver 6 0 24.3 .309 .250 .667 1.8 1.2 1.0 .2 10.8
2015 Houston 17 0 25.2 .431 .286 .636 2.8 1.1 .6 .2 11.2
2016 Houston 5 1 15.4 .259 .100 .875 1.4 1.6 .0 .2 4.4
2018 Oklahoma City 6 6 25.2 .520 .455 1.000 2.2 .8 1.2 .8 6.2
Career 47 7 20.0 .400 .279 .694 2.0 1.0 .7 .3 8.1

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Corey Wayne Brewer is an American basketball coach and former professional player, renowned for his defensive prowess, athleticism, and role in winning championships at the collegiate and NBA levels. Born on March 5, 1986, in Portland, Tennessee, Brewer stands at 6 feet 9 inches tall and played , shooting guard, and during his 13-season NBA career. At the , he helped lead the Gators to back-to-back NCAA championships in 2006 and 2007, earning Most Outstanding Player honors in the 2007 tournament after averaging 15.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game. Selected seventh overall by the in the , Brewer debuted as a versatile defender known for his length and energy, contributing to the Timberwolves across multiple stints from 2007 to 2011 and 2013 to 2015. He was traded to the in 2011 before signing with the , where he played a key bench role in their 2011 NBA championship run, contributing to the Dallas Mavericks' 2011 NBA championship win, appearing in 6 playoff games and averaging 1.5 points per game during the postseason. Brewer's career included stops with the (2011–2013), (2014–2017), (2016–2018), (2017–2018), (2018–2019), and (2018–2020), where he evolved into a reliable three-point shooter later in his tenure. One of his most notable performances came on April 11, 2014, when he scored a career-high 51 points against the , tying a Timberwolves franchise record and becoming the fourth player in NBA history to record 50 points and six steals in a single game. Over 819 regular-season games, Brewer averaged 8.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, with a career 42.5% and notable defensive contributions, including 989 career steals. He received votes for NBA of the Year in 2013. After retiring following the 2019–2020 season, Brewer transitioned into coaching, serving as an assistant coach for the since 2024, where he remains in that role as of 2025.

Early life

Family background and upbringing

Corey Wayne Brewer was born on March 5, 1986, in Portland, Tennessee, a small rural town about 35 miles north of Nashville, to parents Ellis "Pee Wee" Brewer and Glenda Brewer. His father, who passed away in February 2012 at the age of 68, worked multiple jobs including hauling garbage, laboring in factories and slaughterhouses, and farming corn, soybeans, and tobacco to support the family. Brewer's mother, a graduate of , emphasized humility and family values while working as a special-education at Portland High School. Growing up on his grandmother's 70-acre , Brewer experienced a demanding rural lifestyle that shaped his strong from an early age. He began driving a at seven and participated in farm chores such as baling hay, selling pigs at local markets in Dixon, and harvesting in Springfield. Family home improvements, including collaborative projects like pouring , further reinforced and , as Brewer often helped his father with hands-on tasks around the property. These experiences, combined with his parents' example of perseverance amid financial hardships, instilled in him a relentless drive that carried over to his athletic pursuits. The Brewer family had a tradition of basketball involvement, with Pee Wee Brewer having played locally in his youth, fostering an early interest in the sport among his children. Glenda Brewer's guidance on staying grounded complemented this, encouraging to remain humble despite his growing talents. Extended family ties added a unique dimension, as Brewer's mother was a Rogan by birth, connecting him to John William Rogan, her father's cousin and the tallest recorded African American man at 8 feet 9 inches, who died in 1905—family lore often credited this lineage for Brewer's height. Brewer's initial exposure to basketball came informally through local parks and family games, without any structured training until high school. He honed his skills on a backyard court equipped with an adjustable hoop, later upgraded by his father to a sturdy plywood backboard, often competing against his older brother in one-on-one matches under a spotlight until late at night—the loser typically handling additional household chores like cleaning or hauling trash. This organic environment nurtured his passion and competitive spirit in a supportive setting.

High school career

Corey Brewer attended Portland High School in Portland, , where he played for the Portland Panthers and graduated in 2004. During his junior year, Brewer led the Panthers to the semi-finals of the Tennessee High School State Basketball Tournament. As a senior during the 2003–04 season, he averaged 29.4 points and 12.8 rebounds per game and was a dominant force on both ends of the court. His performance earned him All-State honors for three consecutive years and recognition as one of the top high school prospects nationally. Brewer was also named the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA) Class AA Mr. Basketball in 2004, along with selections to the and the Jordan Brand All-American Game. Brewer's high school success drew scholarship offers from numerous Division I programs, including interest from and strong pressure from his family and community to attend the . Ultimately, he committed to the , swayed by a recruiting visit and head coach Billy Donovan's emphasis on defensive development and team success. Ranked as a four-star recruit and No. 31 overall nationally by , Brewer's decision positioned him among an elite incoming class for the Gators.

College career

Freshman and sophomore seasons

Corey Brewer joined the as a highly touted recruit in the fall of , becoming a key member of the Gators' "Super Six" recruiting class that also included , , , Chris Richard, and , a group that would form the foundation for the program's rapid ascent to national prominence. As a true freshman during the 2004–05 season, Brewer adapted quickly to the college level despite the team's deep roster, starting all 32 games and averaging 7.5 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.4 steals in 24.7 minutes per game. His defensive energy was evident early, as he contributed to Florida's improved perimeter defense while learning the nuances of coach Billy Donovan's up-tempo system, earning SEC All-Freshman honors for his versatility as a 6-foot-9 forward. In his year of 2005–06, Brewer experienced a significant breakout, emerging as a starter in 37 of 39 games and boosting his production to 12.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.6 steals per game while playing 28.1 minutes on average. His defensive impact was particularly notable, leading the team with 61 steals and earning SEC Defensive Player of the Year as well as Second Team All-SEC honors, where he often guarded opponents' top perimeter threats to help secure the SEC regular-season and tournament titles. Brewer's all-around growth, including improved scoring efficiency and playmaking, solidified his role as a cornerstone of the Gators' balanced attack heading into the postseason.

2006 and 2007 NCAA championships

Corey Brewer played a key role in the ' 2006 NCAA Tournament run, averaging 13.8 points and 4.8 rebounds over six games as the team advanced to its first . In the Final Four semifinal against , he scored a tournament-high 19 points, including three three-pointers, helping secure a 73-58 victory. Brewer's defensive versatility and perimeter shooting complemented the frontcourt dominance of teammates and , contributing to Florida's balanced attack throughout the postseason. He was named to the All- Team for his efforts. In the 2006 championship game, Florida defeated UCLA 73-57, with Brewer contributing 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three steals in 37 minutes, helping limit the Bruins to 29.5% shooting. His sophomore season performance, where he averaged 12.7 points and 4.8 rebounds overall, provided the foundation for his elevated tournament play. The Gators' success marked the program's first NCAA title under coach . During his junior season in 2006–07, Brewer started all 38 games, averaging 13.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 45.6% from the field. His consistent production on both ends of the floor earned him First Team All-SEC honors, further establishing him as one of the conference's top players. Building on their momentum, Brewer elevated his game in the 2007 NCAA Tournament, averaging 15.8 points and 5.5 rebounds across six contests while adding 1.7 steals per game, showcasing improved scoring efficiency and defensive intensity. He scored in double figures in every tournament game, including a 19-point effort in the win over UCLA (76-66). Brewer's perimeter defense and transition play were instrumental in Florida's repeat bid. He earned spots on the NCAA All-Tournament Team and was named the Most Outstanding Player. In the 2007 final, Brewer tallied 13 points, eight rebounds, three steals, and one block in a 84-75 victory over , capping 's second straight title and completing an undefeated postseason streak of 12 wins. His chemistry with classmates —Most Outstanding Player in 2006—and fostered a cohesive unit, with the trio anchoring both ends of the floor in high-stakes games. This allowed to overcome challenges like 's freshman stars and . Brewer's contributions helped become the first team to win back-to-back NCAA men's basketball championships since in 1991 and 1992, a feat achieved by only eight programs in tournament history. As part of the celebrated "2004 recruiting class," his role in these titles solidified his legacy at , where the Gators' back-to-back success remains a benchmark for team accomplishment and player development.

Professional career

Minnesota Timberwolves (2007–2011)

Brewer was selected by the with the seventh overall pick in the , a choice bolstered by his role in leading the to back-to-back NCAA championships in 2006 and 2007. The 6-foot-9 signed a rookie contract with the team shortly after the draft, beginning his professional career in a rebuilding franchise. In his rookie season of 2007–08, Brewer appeared in 79 games, averaging 5.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game while playing 22.8 minutes off the bench. His athleticism and perimeter defense earned him recognition as a promising young talent, culminating in selection to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team. Brewer's transition to the NBA highlighted his versatility, as he contributed steals and blocks while adjusting to professional speed and physicality. Over the next three seasons (2008–11), Brewer solidified his role as a defensive specialist for the Timberwolves, frequently assigned to guard the opponent's top wing scorers across multiple positions. His athleticism allowed him to disrupt passing lanes and contest shots effectively, though his offensive game remained a work in progress with inconsistent shooting efficiency. Brewer's peak performance came in the 2009–10 season, where he started all 82 games, averaging 13.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 30.3 minutes per game—his highest scoring output during his initial stint with . The Timberwolves faced significant challenges during Brewer's tenure, posting losing records in all four seasons: 24–58 in 2007–08, 24–58 in 2008–09, 15–67 in 2009–10, and 17–65 in 2010–11. These struggles stemmed from roster instability and injuries, preventing the team from contending in the Western Conference. Brewer's defensive reliability provided stability, but his erratic scoring—marked by poor three-point shooting and turnover issues—fueled trade rumors as the front office sought to reshape the lineup.

Dallas Mavericks (2011)

On March 3, 2011, Brewer signed a three-year, $7.5 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks shortly after being waived by the New York Knicks, to whom he had been traded from the Minnesota Timberwolves on February 22 as part of the blockbuster deal acquiring Carmelo Anthony. The Mavericks, seeking additional wing depth and energy off the bench amid their push for a deep playoff run, viewed Brewer's athleticism and defensive tenacity as valuable additions despite his inconsistent production earlier in the season. In his 13 regular-season games with , Brewer served primarily as a reserve forward, providing defensive intensity and transition scoring in limited minutes. He averaged 5.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.8 steals per game while shooting 49.0 percent from the field over 11.4 minutes of play, with standout performances including a 20-point outburst against the on April 8 that featured four steals and efficient scoring on fast breaks. His role emphasized hustle and perimeter defense, helping stabilize ' bench during the late-season stretch as they secured the third seed in the Western Conference. Brewer appeared in six playoff games for the Mavericks en route to their 2011 NBA Championship, averaging 1.5 points and 0.7 steals in 3.8 minutes per contest, with his most notable contribution coming in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the , where he tallied five points, a steal leading to a fast-break dunk, and a team-high +11 in eight third-quarter minutes to help secure a crucial road upset. Though his minutes dwindled in later rounds, including against the , Brewer was lauded for his readiness to provide defensive pressure on wings like and , along with relentless hustle that supported star Dirk Nowitzki's offensive load through loose balls and transition opportunities. His efforts as part of the championship roster culminated in defeating 4-2 in , earning Brewer his first NBA title and a lasting place in the team's improbable run.

Denver Nuggets (2011–2013)

On December 13, 2011, Brewer was traded from the to the along with Rudy Fernández in exchange for a future second-round draft pick. This move came shortly before the start of the lockout-shortened , allowing Brewer to join a Nuggets team known for its fast-paced, high-scoring offense led by point guard . Drawing motivation from his recent NBA championship experience with Dallas in 2011, Brewer provided versatile wing defense and scoring off the bench while occasionally starting. In the 2011–12 season, Brewer appeared in 59 games for Denver, starting 17, and averaged 8.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game in 21.8 minutes. He contributed to a Nuggets squad that ranked first in the league in scoring at 104.1 points per game and finished with a 38–28 record, securing the third seed in the Western Conference. In the playoffs, Denver faced the Los Angeles Lakers in the first round and pushed the series to seven games, with Brewer averaging 8.3 points and 1.0 steal in 16.6 minutes across seven contests before the Nuggets fell 4–3. Brewer's role expanded in the 2012–13 season, where he played all 82 games, starting just 2, and posted career highs of 12.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game in 24.4 minutes. His improved scoring efficiency and defensive energy helped anchor the alongside Lawson in Denver's up-tempo system. The Nuggets achieved a franchise-record-tying 57 wins and earned the third seed in the West, but were upset in the first round by the sixth-seeded , 4–2, with Brewer averaging 10.8 points in the series. Following the season, Brewer became an unrestricted free agent and departed , signing a three-year, $15 million contract with the on July 10, 2013.

Return to Minnesota Timberwolves (2013–2014)

On July 12, 2013, Brewer signed a three-year, $15 million contract with the , marking his return to the franchise that originally drafted him sixth overall in 2007. This move brought back a familiar face to a team in the midst of rebuilding around young talents like and , leveraging Brewer's prior experience with the organization to provide immediate continuity and energy off the bench initially before earning a starting role. During the 2013–14 season, Brewer emerged as a key veteran mentor and defensive anchor for the Timberwolves, starting all 81 games and averaging 12.3 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game while helping to stabilize a young roster navigating injuries and inconsistency. On April 11, 2014, Brewer scored a career-high 51 points against the in a 112–110 win, tying a Timberwolves franchise record and becoming the fourth player in NBA history to record 50 points and six steals in a single game. His relentless perimeter defense and transition play complemented the core group, particularly aiding by creating fast-break opportunities that boosted the All-Star forward's assist numbers to a career-high 4.4 per game. Brewer's vocal in the locker room fostered a competitive mentality, emphasizing effort and resilience amid the team's rebuilding phase, which saw them finish 40–42 and miss the playoffs despite Love's MVP-caliber performance. Brewer's contributions extended beyond statistics, as he guarded opponents' top scorers and provided stability during a season marked by potential but hampered by depth issues and Love's trade rumors. His familiarity with Minnesota's system from his allowed him to quickly integrate, offering guidance to less experienced players and helping maintain team focus in a developmental environment.

Houston Rockets (2014–2017)

On December 19, 2014, the acquired Corey Brewer from the in a three-team trade that also involved the , sending and two future second-round picks to Minnesota while receiving from Philadelphia. Brewer quickly became a valuable bench contributor for the , providing athleticism and defensive energy alongside stars like and during the 2014–15 season. His synergy with Harden, who led the team in scoring, and Howard, the defensive anchor in the paint, helped stabilize the wing rotation amid injuries and inconsistencies. In his first full season with , Brewer appeared in 56 games off the bench, averaging 11.9 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 42.9 percent from the field. He emerged as a , particularly in transition and as a perimeter defender, contributing to the Rockets' surge to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. During the , advanced to the Western Conference Finals for the first time since 2009, defeating the and before falling to the in five games; Brewer averaged 11.2 points and 2.8 rebounds across 17 playoff contests, including a standout 19-point performance in Game 6 of the semifinals against the Clippers, where he helped fuel a 19-point comeback victory. His defensive versatility complemented Howard's rim protection and Harden's offensive load, forming a balanced unit that pushed the eventual champions to the brink. Following the playoff run, Brewer re-signed with the Rockets on July 15, 2015, to a three-year, $22.9 million contract, securing his role as a rotational wing. In the 2015–16 season, he played all 82 games, averaging 7.2 points and 1.0 steals in 20.4 minutes per game, primarily as a defensive specialist who guarded opposing wings effectively while continuing to mesh with Harden's playmaking. The Rockets exited in the first round against the Warriors, but Brewer's steady minutes underscored his value in maintaining team depth. By the 2016–17 season, his role diminished to 15.9 minutes per game across 58 appearances, with averages of 4.2 points and 0.6 steals, as younger players and roster changes reduced his offensive involvement; nonetheless, he remained a reliable defender in limited stretches. On February 23, 2017, the Rockets traded Brewer and their 2017 first-round pick to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Lou Williams, ending his tenure in Houston after contributing to two deep playoff runs.

Los Angeles Lakers (2017–2018)

On August 10, 2017, the re-signed Corey Brewer to a one-year contract worth approximately $2.1 million, retaining the veteran forward acquired in a midseason trade from the the previous February. This deal allowed Brewer to continue providing veteran leadership on a rebuilding roster featuring rookies like and , drawing on his playoff experience from three postseason appearances with between 2015 and 2017. During the 2017–18 season, Brewer appeared in 54 games for the Lakers, averaging 3.7 points, 1.3 rebounds, and 12.9 minutes per game off the bench. His role emphasized in the locker room, where he offered guidance to the young core on professional habits and game preparation, often sharing insights from his championship-winning college days and NBA tenure. Brewer's on-court contributions were limited, as he focused on defensive energy in spot minutes rather than scoring, aligning with the team's developmental priorities. The Lakers struggled throughout the season, finishing with a 35–47 record and missing the for the fifth consecutive year. Brewer's playing time was further restricted by the team's depth at forward and minor injuries that caused him to miss 28 games, reducing his impact amid a roster emphasizing youth development over veteran minutes. In late February 2018, the Lakers reached a agreement with Brewer, waiving him on to allow the 31-year-old to pursue opportunities with a playoff contender; he cleared waivers two days later.

Oklahoma City Thunder (2018)

On February 28, 2018, the agreed to a contract buyout with Brewer, waiving him after he had appeared in 58 games that season. Following the waiver clearance, Brewer signed with the on March 3, 2018, for the remainder of the 2017–18 season, reuniting him with his former coach . The move added veteran depth to a Thunder roster featuring stars and , where Brewer contributed defensive intensity and perimeter versatility amid a push for playoff positioning. In 18 regular-season games with , all after the All-Star break, Brewer started 16 contests and averaged 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 28.6 minutes per game, showcasing his athleticism and transition scoring. His addition bolstered the team's wing defense, with notable performances including a 22-point, six-steal outing against the on March 16. Brewer appeared in all six games of the Thunder's first-round playoff series against the , starting each and averaging 6.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 25.2 minutes, providing key energy in Oklahoma City's 4–2 series victory. The Thunder advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals but were eliminated by the in five games. Brewer became an unrestricted following the postseason.

Philadelphia 76ers and Sacramento Kings (2019–2020)

On January 15, 2019, the signed veteran forward Corey Brewer to a 10-day contract to provide depth amid injuries. He appeared in seven games for the team during the 2018–19 season, starting three, and averaged 7.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.7 steals in 20.0 minutes per game. The 76ers extended another 10-day deal on January 25, 2019, but opted not to retain him for the remainder of the season after his contract expired on February 5, 2019. Following his release from Philadelphia, Brewer signed a 10-day contract with the Sacramento Kings on February 8, 2019, to bolster their wing rotation. He secured a second 10-day agreement on February 18 and a rest-of-season contract on February 28, allowing him to contribute through the end of the regular season. In 25 games with the Kings during the 2018–19 season, Brewer averaged 4.4 points and 1.8 rebounds in 12.7 minutes per game, primarily serving as a defensive specialist off the bench. After remaining a for most of the 2019–20 season, which was suspended due to the , Brewer re-signed with on June 23, 2020, ahead of the NBA restart in the Orlando bubble. He played in five games during the bubble, averaging 1.0 point and 1.6 rebounds in limited 6.6 minutes per game, marking his final NBA appearances. Brewer announced his retirement from the NBA on November 16, , after 13 professional seasons, transitioning immediately to a player development coach role with the . Following his NBA retirement, Brewer joined the three-on-three league in 2022, playing for the Houston Rig Hands. He has continued participating as of 2025, serving as co-captain and winning Defensive Player of the Year in 2024, while working as an assistant coach for the .

Coaching career

Player development roles

Following his retirement from professional basketball in November 2020, Corey Brewer took a brief period to focus on family matters before transitioning into coaching. He was hired by the as a player development coach on November 16, 2020, marking his entry into the NBA coaching ranks. Ahead of the 2022-2023 season, Brewer was elevated to assistant coach/player development coach. In this role, which he held through the 2023-2024 season, Brewer concentrated on skill-building with the team's young talent, leveraging his 13-year playing career across multiple franchises to provide practical guidance. Brewer's work emphasized individualized drills tailored to players' needs, including shooting mechanics and defensive fundamentals. For instance, he collaborated with on midrange and three-point shooting to expand his offensive range, while helping increase his shot aggression during practices. On the defensive end, Brewer honed Josh Hart's versatility, enabling him to guard positions from to effectively through targeted film sessions and on-court simulations. He also supported in refining decision-making under pressure, focusing on counters to opposing defenses via one-on-one and small-group exercises. Drawing from his journeyman background—having played for eight NBA teams—Brewer adopted a style centered on hustle, adaptability, and real-game application. He built trust with players like Ingram, , and Hart by sharing insights from his own career under coaches such as Kevin McHale and , stressing the importance of relentless effort and adjusting to limited practice time in a condensed schedule. This approach helped instill a exemplified by players like Williamson's dedication in the gym and Hart's rebounding tenacity. Brewer's networking through NBA connections facilitated his smooth entry, though specific certifications were not publicly detailed during this phase.

New Orleans Pelicans assistant coach (2024–present)

In September 2024, Corey Brewer was promoted to assistant coach for the under head coach , after serving in an assistant coach/player development role since 2022 and marking a significant step in his coaching progression after four seasons with the organization. As an assistant coach, Brewer has focused on enhancing player skills and team strategies, leveraging his extensive NBA playing experience to mentor young talent on the roster. His prior player development work served as a foundation, allowing him to contribute more directly to game preparation and on-court instruction. In particular, Brewer has been instrumental in the ongoing development of star forward , conducting one-on-one sessions to refine his overall game, including footwork, conditioning, and defensive awareness during practices and rehabilitation periods. During the 2024–2025 season, Brewer's efforts supported the Pelicans' staff amid a rebuilding phase, though the team struggled with injuries and finished with a 21–61 record, missing the . In 2025, he gained further experience by serving as head coach for the Pelicans' team in , where he emphasized effort, intensity, and decision-making for rookies and young players. Brewer remains under contract with the Pelicans through at least the 2025–2026 season and has voiced long-term ambitions to pursue an NBA head coaching position, viewing his current role as a key building block toward that goal.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Corey Brewer began dating Mongalo after being introduced by a mutual friend. The couple started casually and had been together for about four years before Brewer's proposal around 2014. Brewer and Mongalo welcomed their first son, Kellen, in 2009, followed by their second son, Sebastian, in 2014. Throughout Brewer's NBA career, which involved frequent trades, Mongalo provided steadfast support, attending games and helping him adjust to new cities, such as his 2014 move from the to the . Brewer has emphasized the challenges of balancing fatherhood with the demands of professional basketball travel, noting that his children motivated him to perform despite the separations. The couple married on August 18, 2018, in an intimate ceremony at in , attended by NBA guests and focused on celebration with food, drinks, and dancing. Mongalo has described Brewer as an even better dad than player, highlighting his attentiveness, such as excelling at diaper changes and quickly shifting focus to family after tough games. Brewer's rural upbringing instilled family values that continue to shape his role as a devoted . As of 2025, Brewer mentors his son Kellen, who is a rising high school prospect.

Philanthropy and interests

Brewer established the Corey Brewer Foundation to combat and support those affected by the disease, driven by his family's history with Type 1 and , including both parents and several relatives. The foundation collaborates with organizations such as schools in his hometown of Portland, Tennessee; the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation in during his time with the Timberwolves; and Shands in , to promote awareness, testing, and education for at-risk youth. These efforts aim to address unhealthy lifestyles among young people, providing resources for prevention and management. As of 2025, the foundation continues its focus on prevention and education. In addition to his foundation's work, Brewer has hosted annual youth camps since entering the NBA, focusing on skill development and community engagement. His Back2Back Camp in Portland, , marked its 10th year in 2017, offering sessions for ages 9-17 and benefiting local programs, including initiatives. Similar camps in Gainesville have raised funds for the UF Institute and Shands Hospital's pediatric programs. During his tenure with the , he participated in the team's FastBreak Foundation events, such as the annual Cooking for a Cause, which provided meals and activities for children from local shelters, and organized a holiday party for underprivileged youth before his 2014 trade. Beyond philanthropy, Brewer's interests reflect his rural upbringing on a farm, where he developed a strong through fieldwork and outdoor activities alongside . Described as a "country kid" with humble roots, he maintains a connection to his origins, though specific hobbies like or are not detailed in public accounts. His family history continues to motivate his charitable focus, emphasizing as a way to give back to communities similar to the one that shaped him.

NBA career statistics

Regular season

Corey Brewer's NBA regular season career spanned 13 seasons from 2007 to 2020, during which he appeared in 819 games, averaging 8.7 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game while playing 22.9 minutes per contest. His role evolved significantly over time, beginning as a versatile rookie contributor with the focused on scoring and rebounding, peaking as an efficient scorer in his third season, and later transitioning into a defensive specialist valued for his steals and perimeter defense, particularly during stints with the and . This shift reflected his adaptation to team needs, moving from primary offensive options early on to a high-energy role player emphasizing transition plays and perimeter disruption in later years. The following table summarizes Brewer's regular season per-game statistics by year, highlighting his scoring progression from a modest output of 5.8 to a career-high 13.0 in 2009–10 with , followed by more consistent mid-double-figure averages during his prime, and a decline to under 6.0 points in his final seasons as his minutes diminished.
SeasonTeam(s)GPGSMPGFG%3P%FT%RPGAPGSPGPPG
2007–08MIN793522.8.374.194.8003.71.41.05.8
2008–09MIN15820.5.411.417.7373.31.71.06.2
2009–10MIN828230.3.431.346.6483.42.41.413.0
2010–11MIN/DAL692421.9.395.268.7082.51.31.48.0
2011–12DEN591721.8.434.260.6922.51.51.28.9
2012–13DEN82224.4.425.296.6902.91.51.412.1
2013–14MIN818132.2.481.280.7182.61.71.912.3
2014–15MIN/NYK/HOU801726.1.426.268.7433.72.21.411.5
2015–16HOU821220.4.384.272.7502.41.31.07.2
2016–17HOU/LAL/MIN821115.6.422.229.7352.01.20.74.5
2017–18LAL/OKC721816.8.449.282.7222.10.91.15.3
2018–19/OKC31315.9.431.318.7212.51.31.04.9
2019–20SAC506.6.500.000.3331.60.40.81.0
Career81931022.9.425.284.7132.81.51.28.7
Advanced metrics underscore Brewer's efficiency limitations as a volume scorer but highlight his defensive value, with a career (PER) of 11.9 and (TS%) of 50.3%. His shooting splits reflected inconsistent outside shooting, at 42.5% from the field, 28.4% from three-point range, and 71.3% from the free-throw line across 819 games. By his later seasons, Brewer's impact was more pronounced in steals (career 1.2 per game) and transition opportunities, aligning with his reputation as a hustle player rather than a primary scorer.

Playoffs

Brewer appeared in 47 NBA playoff games over six postseason runs, averaging 8.1 points, 2.0 rebounds, 0.8 steals, and 19.8 minutes per game while shooting 40.6% from the field. His playoff contributions often emphasized perimeter defense and transition scoring, with a career-high 22 points in Game 4 of the 2015 first round against the . Key series highlights include his limited but championship-clinching role in the with the , where he appeared in all six games off the bench during their upset victory over the , averaging 1.5 points and 0.7 steals in 3.8 minutes per game. In the 2013 first round with the , Brewer provided a scoring spark in their six-game loss to the , posting 10.8 points per game on 30.9% shooting amid increased minutes due to injuries. His most extensive playoff exposure came in 2015 with the , averaging 11.2 points and 2.8 rebounds across 17 games en route to the Western Conference Finals, where he contributed 7.6 points per game in the five-game defeat to the .
SeasonTeamSeries ResultGPMPGPPGRPGFG%
2010–11NBA Champions (Finals vs. MIA)63.81.50.3.444
2011–12Lost Second Round (beat 4–3, lost to SAS 1–4)716.68.32.0.426
2012–13Lost First Round (vs. GSW)624.310.81.8.309
2014–15HOULost WCF (vs. GSW)1725.211.22.8.431
2015–16HOULost First Round (vs. GSW)515.44.41.4.259
2017–18OKCLost First Round (vs. UTA)625.26.22.2.520
Throughout his playoff career, Brewer's role evolved from a deep reserve to a more prominent defensive specialist, particularly in his later years with and , where he logged over 25 minutes per game in 2015 and 2018, focusing on guarding opposing wings and providing energy off the bench.

References

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