Maurice Lucas Foundation hosts annual celebrity golf tournament

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — The Maurice Lucas Foundation held its annual charity golfing event on Wednesday at the Reserve Golf Club, with a number of local celebrities all supporting youth athletic programs around the Portland area.

KOIN’s very own anchors Ken Boddie, Adam Bjaranson, and Travis Teich participated in the 21st edition of the event. Portland Trail Blazers 2007 first-round draft pick Greg Oden was also in attendance for the tournament.

The foundation is named after legendary Trail Blazer Maurice Lucas, aka The Enforcer, who was a five-time NBA All-Star and led the Blazers to the NBA title in 1977.

The Blazers retired his jersey and he remained an active member of charities in the Portland area until his death in 2010. He frequently volunteered in coaching, mentoring kids, and his foundation continues his dedication to empowering Portland’s youth through sport.

Maurice Lucas’ son, David Lucas, now serves as the Executive Director for the foundation and says its purpose is, “to ensure that all students, regardless of background, economic status, or zip code, have a fair and equitable opportunity to access high-quality education.”

The money raised at this tournament and other events put on by the foundation goes towards organizing kids’ basketball camps, free lunches, tutoring, and other athletic opportunities for all youth, regardless of socioeconomic background.