Former NFL WR Devin Funchess pursuing NBA career?

Despite starring at Michigan in football before embarking on a five-year NFL career, basketball has always been in Funchess' heart.  

"When it comes to my love and my passion, I love the game of basketball," Funchess said. 

The 28-year-old has no illusions of jumping to the NBA right away. Instead, Funchess said he'd play overseas, get experience and pay his dues in hopes an opportunity might arise. But, several years after playing his last NFL game with the Indianapolis Colts, Funchess has been focused on hoops. 

"I haven't played basketball since 2010 on a real team," Funchess said. "2022, I laced my shoes back up and been going to work since then." 

While Funchess dreams of competing in the NBA one day, a possible return to the NFL isn't out of the question either. 

Funchess says "about three" teams have spoken with his agent recently, all "most definitely" contenders. 

"We're just waiting on that right fit," Funchess said. "Obviously, injuries happen every week. I ain't praying on it, but it is the reality of football. So, I'm just waiting on my call." 

Funchess mentioned the Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs, Dallas Cowboys, and a possible return to Indianapolis when asked what teams he might be interested in joining. 

"I have a rapport with people over in Philly. I used to play with them - and then Indy," Funchess said. "You could never go wrong playing with a Patrick Mahomes or seeing what they're doing down in Dallas." 

A second-round pick by the Panthers in 2015, Funchess has recorded 164 receptions for 2,265 yards and 21 touchdowns over five seasons with Carolina and Indianapolis.