Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton has made headlines once again, this time off the court, by donating $3 million to Oshkosh North High School, his alma mater. This generous gift came during the dedication of the Frank Schade Fieldhouse on Saturday, highlighting Haliburton’s commitment to giving back to the community that shaped his early basketball career.
Haliburton’s Journey from Oshkosh North to NBA Stardom
Tyrese Haliburton began his basketball pursuits at Oshkosh North High School in Wisconsin, where he notably led the team to its first state championship during his senior year. His impressive performance earned him a spot at Iowa State University, where he played for two years and earned second team All-Big 12 honors.
In 2020, Haliburton entered the NBA when he was selected 12th overall by the Sacramento Kings. After a season and a half with the Kings, he was traded to the Indiana Pacers. Since joining the Pacers, Haliburton has become a two-time All-Star and two-time All-NBA selection. He played a key role in guiding Indiana to its first NBA Finals appearance in 2025.
Reasons Behind Haliburton’s Major Donation
Despite his rising fame and success, Haliburton remains deeply connected to Oshkosh North and the surrounding community. At the Frank Schade Fieldhouse dedication, he spoke openly about his motivations for the $3 million contribution. He expressed a strong emotional attachment to the school and the community that supported him from the beginning.
This community, this school means a lot to me,
Haliburton told reporters, per WBAY–TV 2‘s Joey Dubois.
I really cherish this place. I cherish the people within it as well, and I know that I wouldn’t be where I am without this place.
He emphasized the importance of remembering one’s roots and explained how his family instilled a deep sense of community in him.
I think the sense of community is something that’s been instilled in me my whole life from my family and understanding not to forget where you come from,
Haliburton said.
I think that’s just the most important thing. Anything I can do to help out this school or this community in general, I tend to jump at the opportunity to do.
The Unique Impact of Haliburton on Oshkosh North High School
Tyrese Haliburton remains the only NBA player to have emerged from Oshkosh North High School, making his success particularly significant for the school’s athletic program. While two other former players, Frank Seckar and Jalen Keago, have competed at the college level—with Keago currently playing at Alabama State—none have reached the professional ranks as Haliburton has.
Oshkosh North High School is located in Wisconsin, the same state where the Milwaukee Bucks operate. Interestingly, Haliburton has led the Pacers to victories over the Bucks in the first round of the NBA playoffs in each of the last two postseasons, adding a local rivalry narrative to his story.
The Broader Significance of Haliburton’s Contribution
Haliburton’s $3 million donation is more than just financial support; it signals a lasting bond between an accomplished athlete and the community that launched his career. His generosity could inspire other professional athletes to invest in their hometown schools and communities. For Oshkosh North, the contribution toward the Frank Schade Fieldhouse will enhance facilities for generations of young athletes to come, possibly fostering future basketball talent.
As Haliburton continues his NBA career with the Pacers, his commitment off the court serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back and staying connected to one’s roots, a value he has embraced wholeheartedly.