Austin’s emotional moment headlines 2014 NBA Draft

Sportswriters across the country dubbed it the best moment of the 2014 NBA Draft, perhaps one of the most memorable moments in the draft’s history.

Midway through the first round, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver interrupted the proceedings to make a special announcement; watch for yourself:

“With the next pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, the NBA selects Isaiah Austin from Baylor University.” Wiping away tears, Austin received an extended standing ovation from the notoriously critical crowd at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. His interview immediately afterwards again displayed the class and grace for which Austin is known; CBS Sports nailed it with this story: “Isaiah Austin wins the night at the NBA Draft and starts a new life“.

[SEE highlights of the reaction and coverage on Twitter.]

Austin’s appearance wasn’t the only shining moment of the night for Baylor. Cory Jefferson, BSED ’14, was selected in the second round by the San Antonio Spurs and reportedly traded immediately to the Brooklyn Nets. The selection gives Baylor five NBA picks in the last three years, trailing only Kansas’ six among Big 12 teams over that period.

Sic ’em, Baylor basketball alums!