Laurinburg Institute Athletics
Laurinburg Institute’s athletics program is an essential facet to the school philosophy, which seeks to develop the whole child–including physically. Whatever they decide to do, and to do it to the On the court and in the classroom, student leadership, integrity and character remain a central focus for the school. The athletic program teaches athletes to take pride in utmost of their ability.
Program Overview
The program is designed to improve the total level of fitness of athletes by developing strength, agility, speed, and endurance. Athletics provide the opportunity to extend classroom lessons to a broader playing field where life lessons can be learned; lessons in teamwork, self-discipline, respect and responsibility that enrich the lives of our students and prepare them for life in the “real world” following graduation.
The school is proud of its rich history of success. According to Joseph Milford in the December 2, 2014 edition of Elite Daily, Laurinburg Institute is number 5 of “10 High Schools that have produced the Most NBA Players in History”. They are:
Shawne Williams – 2006 – Indiana Pacers
Chris Washburn – 1986 – Golden State Warriors
Jimmy Walker – 1967 – Detroit Pistons
Charlie Scott – 1972 – Phoenix Suns
Sam Jones – 1957 – Boston Celtics
Chris Johnson – 2011 – Portland Trailblazers
Mike Evans – 1979 – San Antonio Spurs
Joey Dorsey – 2008 – Houston Rockets
Charlie Davis – 1971 – Cleveland Cavaliers
Renaldo Balkman – 2006 – New York Knicks
Antonio Anderson – 2009 – Oklahoma City Thunder
According to Sports Illustrated, Laurinburg Institute “…assembled the best high school prep team ever after winning the National Prep High School Tournament championships back to back.”
Two graduates have become Olympians, Charlie Scott – basketball, and Beverly McDonald – track. All of these accomplishments have yielded a tremendous amount of “Tiger Pride.”
Below is a picture of Renaldo Balkman:
