Born on February 16, 1952, Glenn’s journey began with a love for basketball and music that would define his career and personal life. His story unfolds through his standout high school and college basketball achievements, a vibrant music career, and a dedicated commitment to family and community, making him a cherished figure in Tulsa’s history.
Glenn Buntin Jr. was born on February 16, 1952, in Tulsa. His passion for basketball started at age 2, and after attending an Oklahoma Sooner game, he was hooked. By 1956, he began singing and learned guitar from his friend James Cupps. Glenn’s basketball career flourished early, joining the Garfield team and later the Lake Eagles, where he played alongside teammates Eddie Garrett and Ed Whittenberg, coached by O’Neal Adams.
Under Coach Don Johnson at CPHS, Glenn learned valuable life lessons and basketball skills, inspired by Jerry Adair’s game. His senior year saw Sandites dominate home games in their tiny gym. Glenn and Eddie Garrett gained fame in high school, lauded as Oklahoma’s best basketball duo by sportswriter Terrell Lester.
Glenn excelled in sports, setting numerous scoring records at CPHS before becoming an Oral Roberts University standout under Coach Ken Trickey. His basketball journey continued at North Texas State University with Coach Billy Tubbs, culminating in his induction into the Tulsa World Tournament of Championships Hall of Fame in 1999.
Beyond athletics, Glenn pursued a music career, performing for two decades and even paying tribute to Elvis at the Tulsa State Fair. In 1978, he married Carrie Robak, forming a lifelong partnership both on stage and off. Glenn’s insurance career spanned 32 years, marked by exceptional service and support for charitable causes like the March of Dimes Walk for Mankind.
A dedicated family man, Glenn coached and umpired Sand Springs Little League Baseball, always cherishing his community ties. His proudest moments include welcoming the first African American football players to integrate Sand Springs Junior High in 1965, and fostering lasting friendships with Forest and Doris Crawford.