It was supposed to be a joyous week for Baylor center Isaiah Austin. The 7’1″ big man was expecting to be drafted in Tuesday’s NBA Draft. Instead, it is heartbreak as Baylor has announced that pre-draft genetic testing has resulted in Austin being diagnosed with a career-ending medical condition.
Austin has been diagnosed with Marafan syndrome, a degenerative condition that attacks the body, and weakens the connective tissues in many areas. It leads some
“This is devastating news, but Isaiah has the best support system anyone could ask for, and he knows that all of Baylor Nation is behind him,” head coach Scott Drew said in a statement.
“His health is the most important thing, and while it’s extremely sad that he won’t be able to play in the NBA, our hope is that he’ll return to Baylor to complete his degree and serve as a coach in our program.”
Baylor took to twitter after the news was announced.
Words can’t explain how thankful I am for the time I had to play this wonderful sport. It changed my life forever. #NewBeginnings
— God’s Child (@IsaiahAustin) June 22, 2014
Words can’t explain how thankful I am for the time I had to play this wonderful sport. It changed my life forever. #NewBeginnings
— God’s Child (@IsaiahAustin) June 22, 2014
This game. It is a platform for anyone and everyone who comes in contact with it. I was blessed enough… http://t.co/5CLdhodTrd
— God’s Child (@IsaiahAustin) June 22, 2014
Austin is blind in his right eye after he suffered a detached retina as a teenager.
In two years at Baylor Austin played in 73 games and averaged 12.1 points, 6.9 rebounds and 2.4 blocks in 28.9 minutes per game. He finishes his career with 177 blocks, good for a tie for second in school history. With 119 blocks this season he led the Big XII.
In his two years, Baylor won the 2013 NIT and made it to the sweet sixteen of this year’s March Madness.
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