If you don't appreciate the story of Patrick Thibodeau, the team manager for the Greely High (Cumberland Center, Maine) boys basketball squad, then your heart is old and wooden.
Patrick, a senior who has Down's Syndrome, practices with the team but had never played in a real game. He recently he got his chance, however, during Greely's Senior Night, and he made the most of it. And the video above only tells part of the story.
Patrick made sure his opportunity counted, scoring a 3-pointer with just his second shot. Then, with one minute left in the game, fans stood and chanted Patrick's name. The coach put him back in the game and he delivered — sinking another three-pointer at the buzzer. Patrick's teammates swarmed around him, and carried him off the court.
Hey WCSH, way to leave the game early to beat the traffic.
Patrick's father, Perry, suffered a stroke two weeks ago, and was released from the hospital the day before in order to see his son play. Hey, I've always said it: Patrick Thibodeau is going to get his points; you just have to make sure you stop everyone else.
Here's a longer video from Bootlegger Sports, which includes Patrick's final shot (at the 3:47 mark).
Student With Down's Syndrome Scores For Greely High [WCSH6]
Bootlegger Sports [A Very Special Night]