NBA Star Russell Westbrook Launches Revolutionary AI-Powered Funeral Planning Service

NBA superstar Russell Westbrook has ventured into the technology sector with the launch of Eazewell, an innovative AI-enabled funeral planning startup. Announced in May 2025, the platform aims to revolutionise how families navigate the challenging process of arranging funerals during times of grief.

Westbrook co-founded Eazewell alongside former NBA player Kemba Walker and Donnell Beverly Jr., his childhood friend. The startup leverages artificial intelligence to streamline funeral arrangements, offering personalised options based on family preferences and budgets whilst managing essential paperwork and administrative tasks.

The inspiration behind Eazewell stems from a profound personal loss experienced by Westbrook and Beverly during their high school years. The sudden death of their teammate and friend, Khelcey Barrs III, from an enlarged heart exposed them to the emotional and logistical challenges families face when planning funerals.

The platform’s AI technology transforms traditionally offline funeral services into an autonomous digital experience. It handles various aspects of funeral planning, from gathering burial and cremation service quotes to managing financial documentation. The system can even conduct automated phone calls to funeral homes to collect pricing information, significantly expediting the decision-making process for grieving families.

Eazewell has garnered substantial backing from notable investors, including Tru Skye Ventures, co-founded by entrepreneur Stephen Stokols and former NBA All-Star Metta World Peace. This investment support demonstrates strong confidence in the platform’s potential to transform the funeral planning industry.

Co-founder Beverly’s personal experience of losing both his parents further reinforced the need for such a service. The platform was developed with a deep understanding of the challenges families face during bereavement, offering the kind of support Beverly and Westbrook wished had been available during their own experiences with loss.

The service stands out for its comprehensive approach, combining emotional support with efficient task management. By automating administrative processes and providing clear, budget-conscious options, Eazewell enables families to focus on honouring their loved ones without becoming overwhelmed by logistics.

This technological innovation represents a significant shift in an industry traditionally resistant to change. As funeral planning becomes increasingly digital, Eazewell positions itself at the forefront of this transformation, potentially reshaping how families worldwide handle end-of-life arrangements.

Source: CNBC