Austin Hatch scores first points for Michigan

This is the story of my young cousin, Austin Hatch. Just “google” him and you’ll get the background…

This is a great moment for Austin and for the University of Michigan. Coach Beilein promised his family while Austin was in a coma (and we didn’t know whether he’d ever talk again, let alone dribble a basketball) that Michigan would honor his scholarship. At that time Austin had only made a verbal commitment. He was not yet old enough to sign a letter of intent, if I remember rightly. I dare say most coaches at this level would’ve been hedging their bets at that point, but Coach Beilein had given his word. The keeping of that promise has enabled this young man to pursue and live his dream and provided a life-lesson for everyone.