(WFRV) – Pacers star point guard Tyrese Haliburton was back in Northeast Wisconsin Friday, leading a youth basketball camp while also announcing his latest effort to give back to his alma mater.
Haliburton told reporters he has made a financial commitment to Oshkosh North, which includes a brand-new video board in the high school gym, a new scoreboard, and a full renovation of the school’s weight room. In total, Haliburton’s donation will total $3 million throughout three years.
“I can’t wait to see what they do with it,” Haliburton said. “I’m looking forward to it.”
Giving back to the community where his basketball journey began has always been at the forefront of Haliburton’s mind.
“The sense of community has always meant a lot to me, and I’m wise enough to understand that I wouldn’t be where I am today without the people who supported me growing up,” Haliburton said. “You can think back to all the people who had such an impact on me — from teachers to coaches, just community members in general.”
Haliburton’s former high school basketball coach, Brad Weber, said he has always appreciated how connected Haliburton has remained to the program.
“Budget problems are very real for all schools, so when you have someone who’s able to help make current students and players feel special, it makes a huge difference,” Weber explained.
The two-time All-Star suffered a devastating injury in Game Seven of the NBA Playoffs when he tore his Achilles. Six weeks after surgery, the former Oshkosh North Spartan has already ditched the crutches and scooter as he begins his road to recovery.
“I have good days and bad days,” Haliburton said. “It’s a long process. This injury usually takes about a year to get back to 100%. Every little progression is exciting for me. To be here [in Oshkosh] and walking, it means a lot. As time goes on, the more I’m able to do, the more exciting it gets.”
