Basketball player with Down syndrome scores three for his team

From WCSH-TV in Portland, Maine:

CUMBERLAND, Maine -- It was a very special night for the manager of the Greely High School boys basketball team.

Like many of us, Patrick Thibideau, (pictured) has dreamed of being a star athlete. On Tuesday night, Patrick, who has Down's Syndrome, had his dream come true when he went from team manager to starting player.

Patrick made sure his opportunity counted, scoring a 3-pointer with just his second shot. It was a moment that was extra special for the Thibideau family.

Just two weeks ago, Patrick's father Perry, an assistant coach for the team, suffered a stroke. He almost didn't make the game, but when Perry's doctors heard the situation, they let him out of the hospital just in time for him to see his son play. Perry said seeing his son score was thrilling.

"It was kind of surprising to me, I couldn't see who had the ball cause I was sitting way down here," says Perry. "But when I saw the ball go up and every one stand up, I said, yeah, I knew that was Patrick. Especially when it went in, that was fantastic! Best feeling you could ever have in your life... become a parent and you find out why."

Perry Thibideau will be discharged from the hospital Wednesday and then he start his rehabilitation.

Patrick's performance was thrilling to the whole Greely High School boys team. Sam Thompson offered up his starting spot to let Patrick play.

"He comes to practice every day. He comes to every game. He works really hard. He just deserves it," said Thompson.

Patrick Thibideau ended his high school career with three points, but it was the chance to be on the floor with his peers that made his dreams come true.