VERNON HILLS, Ill. -- Former Chicago Bulls player Rick Brunson has pleaded not guilty to sexual abuse charges.
The News Sun in Waukegan reports that the 42-year-old from Vernon Hills entered the plea Thursday in Lake County Circuit Court.
He faces charges of sexual abuse, attempted sexual assault, domestic battery and battery in connection with an alleged encounter with an employee at a suburban Chicago fitness center.
His attorney, Dennis Berkson, says the former player will "vigorously fight" the charges and be found innocent.
A hearing is scheduled Sept. 9 and a trial is scheduled Oct. 27.
Brunson played for eight NBA teams from 1997 to 2006. He's been an assistant coach for college and pro teams, including the Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Bobcats.
