“I wanna give all glory and honor to Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.” These were the first words out of Baylor University’s star basketball player, Marcus Thompson’s mouth as he stood on the court, a smile as bright as the stadium lights reflecting off his face. His team had just made history, securing the school’s first-ever national championship, and Marcus was the one who’d hit the game-winning shot.
The buzzer had sounded, and the crowd erupted into a cacophony of cheers that echoed throughout the arena. The moment felt like a dream. Marcus could hardly believe it—he, the kid who’d grown up on the streets of Houston with nothing but a basketball and a faith in something greater than himself, had just secured his place in Baylor’s history. The team’s victory was more than just about basketball; it was about perseverance, faith, and a journey that began long before he set foot on the court.
Back in his freshman year, Marcus wasn’t a household name. He had been recruited on sheer talent, but his coaches had always seen something more in him. It wasn’t just his skills on the court, but his unshakeable faith. Marcus had always been vocal about his love for Jesus, and that devotion had become part of his identity, both on and off the court. He believed that basketball was just a platform—a chance to give glory to something far bigger than any game or personal achievement.
As the season unfolded, Marcus became the heart and soul of the team. His leadership and dedication were undeniable. But more than that, it was his humility that set him apart. He was the first one to praise his teammates, always attributing his success to the grace of God, and never letting the spotlight shine too brightly on him. “This is all for Jesus,” he would often say, even after hitting game-winning shots or making a crucial play. His faith in Christ wasn’t just a part of his life; it was his life.
The championship game was a battle from start to finish. With every basket made, every pass completed, the pressure mounted. Baylor’s opponents were fierce, a team with a track record that struck fear into the hearts of many. But Marcus, with his calm and unwavering spirit, led the charge. His teammates fed off his energy, inspired by his passion for the game and his devotion to God. They played not just for victory, but for something deeper.
As the final seconds ticked away, Marcus found himself with the ball in his hands, the score tied, and the weight of an entire university on his shoulders. Time slowed as he took a breath, feeling God’s presence surrounding him. He knew that whether they won or lost, his purpose was clear: to glorify God. With a quick crossover, he drove to the basket, leaping into the air, and released the ball. The crowd held its breath.
The ball sailed through the air, and as it touched the net, a roar of triumph filled the stadium. Marcus had done it. Baylor had made history.
Standing at the center of the court, Marcus closed his eyes and whispered a prayer of thanks. Then, with all the humility he could muster, he looked into the cameras and said, “I wanna give all glory and honor to Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.”
The words resonated not only in that moment but in the hearts of millions who would remember it forever—not just as a victory, but as a testament to faith, resilience, and the power of belief.
