Play Channel Magazine volume 5 | Page 13

His name is Isaiah Austin, a 21-year-old former Baylor Bear playing the center position. Austin was considered to be a first-round draft pick by many in the basketball world. Austin was named to the 2014 Big 12 All-Defensive team, with season averages of 11.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 3.1 blocks per game. After completing his sophomore year, he decided to declare himself eligible for the NBA draft. He was invited to participate in the combine, and like his peers, he readied himself to prove he was worthy of being an NBA player. Routine testing halted all of that though.

All former college players looking at entering the NBA are subjected to a series of tests, including fitness and medical screenings. An EKG test forever changed Isaiah’s life. The test revealed that the baller had a genetic disorder called Marfan syndrome – a disorder that affects the body’s connective tissue. During an interview with ESPN’s Holly Rowe, an emotional Austin declared that he would no longer be able to play competitive basketball due to the risk of his heart rupturing. Just like that, a man’s childhood dreams had come to an end. Life as Isaiah Austin knew it had been forever altered. His basketball career was over. All of this just days before the draft.

After learning of the of the devastating diagnosis given to Mr. Austin, NBA commissioner Adam Silver invited him to attend the draft as a special guest. In an unprecedented move, Silver drafted Austin to the NBA. He was chosen as the NBA’s draft pick. Though he can no longer play, Austin was able to have his draft moment. He got to walk on stage and shake Commissioner Silver's hand who adorned his head with a draft day-cap, all while he was cheered on by his peers and fans alike. Isaiah Austin was a first-round draft pick, just as his skill and basketball experts had predicted.

Though the road ahead for Isaiah is much different than he ever could have imagined, he will undoubtedly move forward to much success. Isaiah Austin: the world wishes you well.

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