The Washington Wizards had a new member join their team this weekend but only on a one-day contract. Meet Amaris Jackson, a 10-year-old battling cancer, who’s dream was to “break barriers” by joining an NBA team.
Jackson plays for her middle-school basketball team as a point guard and she’s also batting renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer.
This past Saturday, the Washington Wizards and Make-A-Wish foundation made her dream come true. Jackson was able to meet the players, be on the court during the shoot-around, and receive personalized sneakers and a jersey. Prior to the start of the game, Jackson was brought into owner Ted Leonsis’ office with General Manager Ernie Grunfeld to sign her very own contract, becoming a Wizard for one day.
Youngest player in NBA history, Amaris Jackson, signing her contract with Owner Ted Leonsis and GM Ernie Grunfeld pic.twitter.com/mRjZWxJvNa
— Washington Wizards (@WashWizards) April 12, 2014
John Wall credited Jackson’s positivity and perseverance for the team’s win that day: “Had an awesome time wit my new teammate Amaris yesterday! Her positive attitude and energy definitely helped us get a win!!”
Had an awesome time wit my new teammate Amaris yesterday! Her positive attitude and ener… https://t.co/1OtcNPc0L0 pic.twitter.com/Vdl7PTHN8a
— John Wall (@JohnWall) April 13, 2014
Jackson received another special gift from teammate John Wall after the game:
Amaris Jackson is now the youngest player in NBA history. Kudos to the Washington Wizards and Make-A-Wish foundation for an unforgettable day. Jackson’s story has been flooding Facebook and Twitter as it should!
Photo credit: Keith Allison
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