Player With Down Syndrome Who Sank 3-Pointers Gets Phenom Award From Harlem Globetrotters
ROCHESTER HILLS (WWJ/AP) - A metro Detroit eighth-grader with Down Syndrome who was featured on ESPN's SportsCenter Top 10 Plays for sinking two three-point shots got a special visit from a Harlem Globetrotter on Friday.
Bucket Blakes presented the "Junior Phenom award" to Owen Groesser at Van Hoosen Middle School in Rochester Hills.
"The Junior Phenom Awards are our way of saying thank you,and applauding those individuals who go above and beyond. We want to acknowledge Owen and thank him for setting such a great example," the Globetrotters said in a statement.
Groesser, who served as a manager for the school's basketball team, sank two 3-point baskets in the first game he got to play in, which was also the last game of the season.
Groesser was sent in with two minutes remaining in the first half and quickly sank his first shot. He later launched another 3-pointer which dropped through the nets.
The Globetrotters also said Groesser demonstrates what they like to call "Globetrotter Spirit," which includes traits and actions like helping others, assisting in the community, demonstrating outstanding teamwork and sportsmanship, as well as being a positive role model.
Groesser and his family also received free tickets to see the Globetrotters when they play in Flint on Jan. 28.
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