Isaiah Austin Steps Away From Basketball After Marfan Syndrome Diagnosis
Baylor basketball star Isaiah Austin had to cancel his NBA plans after learning that he's been living with Marfan syndrome.
Isaiah Austin Diagnosed With Marfan Syndrome
Austin, 20, found out that he had Marfan syndrome while undergoing a routine physical at the NBA combine. After an EKG test showed an abnormality, other genetic tests revealed that he tested positive for the serious medical condition.
"They said I wouldn't be able to play basketball anymore at a competitive level," Austin told ESPN's Holly Rowe. "They found the gene in my blood sample. They told me that my arteries in my heart are enlarged and that if I overwork myself and push too hard that my heart could rupture. The draft is four days away, and I had a dream that my name was going to be called."
"For all of my supporters, I just want to tell them sorry,” Austin added. “I'm sorry they couldn't see me play in the NBA. But it's not the end; it's only the beginning."
Austin also took to Twitter to share his gratitude for ever being able to play basketball and for those who have offered him support upon learning of his career-ending diagnosis.
I would love to thank EVERYONE who has reached out to me. Toughest days of my life. But not the last! Life goes on. GOD IS STILL GREAT!
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