In a shocking turn of events, BaylorBears.com is reporting that star center and potential top NBA Draft prospect, Isaiah Austin, has been diagnosed with Marfan syndrome, which will end his basketball career just days before the NBA Draft.
“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 Drewsaid. “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.”
Marfan syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation that leads to problems in connective tissues throughout the body. One feature of Marfan syndrome is aortic enlargement, which can be life-threatening. According to The Marfan Foundation, about one in 5,000 people have Marfan syndrome.
The 7-foot-1 Austin revealed during his sophomore season that he is blind in his right eye as a result of a detached retina suffered as a teenager.