The NBA Draft 2014 is now one for the books. Barclay’s Center hosted, what reports state, might be one of the best draft classes in history. While every NBA fan, whether at the arena or watching it on ESPN, was excited to see who their favorite team would select to pave the way for the future, all eyes were on Isaiah Austin.
First year NBA Commissioner, Adam Silver continues to make his mark as one of the classiest people to hold that title. Yesterday, Silver honored former sophomore Baylor player, Isaiah Austin, who entered the draft back in April.
Not only has Austin been an exceptional stand-out player but he also played with the odds against him. In the 8th grade, Austin suffered a detached retina that left him partially blind. Even though Austin played the course of his basketball career with a prosthetic right eye, he still managed to average 12.1 points, 6.9 rebonds and 2.4 blocks in 73 games over his last two years.
As most the draft class readied themselves for draft day, just five days before, Austin received some devastating news. He was diagnosed with a genetic disorder called Marfan Syndrome, that ended his pre-draft process and potentially playing for the NBA. Marfan syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation that results in a connective tissue problem throughout the body. An enlarged aorta is one possible result of Marfan syndrome, a major problem that can be life threatening.
In a recent interview with Holly Rowe on ESPN, Austin spoke about the day he received his diagnoses. Through his tears and realizing his playing career was over he stated,[pullquote]”The draft is four days away you know, and I had a dream my name was going to be called.” [/pullquote]Well yesterday that dream came true for the courageous man.
Isaiah had his dream moment last night at Barclay’s Center. Adam Silver took the stage between the 15th and 16th pick to present Austin with an honorary selection. The crowd erupted with delight and the entire arena rose to their feet as Silver told of Austin’s story.
Social media went insane with star NBA players tweeting about the incredible moment.
2014 NBA MVP Kevin Durant –
Adam silver is such a classy man! That’s love right there. I’m emotional for him. Damn I love that
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) June 27, 2014
Houston Rockets star player James Harden –Â
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S/O @IsaiahAustin for an unbelievable story. Adam Silver did something special tonight. The @NBA is amazing! — James Harden (@JHarden13) June 27, 2014
Atlanta Hawks Franchise –
Tonight, Isaiah Austin plays for all of us. pic.twitter.com/Ul8JEd8d5J
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) June 27, 2014
Relive the moment that is officially the best draft pick of the night.
While Austin didn’t say much about the road ahead, he did state, “When one door closes, God opens another.” It is said that Baylor college wants him to finish his degree and has offered him a coaching position when he completes his college career. Also Adam Silver is said to have offered him a position with the NBA upon finishing college.
Amazing! Good luck Isaiah, you are blessed!