Former OSU and NBA star Lawrence Funderburke invests in Ohio students' futures

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — In the heart of Columbus, where he was born and raised, former Ohio State and NBA star Lawrence Funderburke is building something more enduring than trophies or headlines—he’s building futures.

Back in the community where he once dreamed of a better life, Funderburke is now the one turning dreams into reality. Through his Funderburke Youth Organization, he’s reaching out to vulnerable students in Central Ohio, offering not just hope, but a roadmap—complete with financial literacy, life skills, and the kind of mentorship that only comes from someone who’s walked the walk.

"What we really wanted to do was be the bridge between their future possibility and present reality," Funderburke said.

Friday was a special day at Scottwood Elementary, buzzing with excitement over a powerful achievement. Each child in the program received a certificate of achievement and a $50 investment to open their very own bank account.

"This program is about putting these kids on track for life," said Principal Laronn Marshall. "Helping to connect the dots between their present and their future."

Fundurburke graduated from Father Wehrle High School, which closed in 1991 and is now home of the CFD Training Academy. He went on to play basketball at Ohio State from 1991 to 1994, and was a 2nd-round pick in the 1994 NBA Draft. He played for the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls between 1997 - 2004.

"I know that if a kid has air in their basketball or oxygen in their body, they have a shot at being successful in life.," Funderburke added. "That's been my motto. I bet on myself as a kid, a poor kid from the projects, so I know kids can do it if they have the right infrastructure and architecture, they can be successful in life.

Funderburke's initiative is planting seeds for life, aiming to make a lasting impact in the classroom.