Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past week, you’ve probably already heard the story (and seen the video) of autistic high school senior Jason McElwain’s tranformation from beloved team manager to basketball superstar. As you watched the video clip, I bet you found yourself thinking "I bet someone decides to make a movie about this kid," and guess what… More than 20 production companies have contacted Jason’s parents already.
From the AP news wire and Newsday.com: "McElwain, who is autistic, was back in his role as an all-around motivator on the eve of a sectional semifinal game Tuesday night _ handing out water bottles, dispensing tips, helping run drills. Two weeks earlier, he suited up for a game and delivered a jaw-dropping performance.
His play drew national attention, and a flood of calls from Hollywood. His parents have received inquiries from about 25 production companies ranging from The Walt Disney Co. and Warner Bros. to independent documentary filmmakers.
"I don’t know what I’m walking into," McElwain said.
In his team’s final home game of the season, McElwain entered with four minutes to go. It was his first and only appearance for the Athena varsity team in this Rochester suburb. The 5-foot-6 manager hit six 3-point shots and a 2-pointer and was carried off the court on his teammates’ shoulders.
His triumph was captured on a student video that made the rounds of the television networks. The school was besieged with calls and e-mails from parents of children who have autism, a little-understood developmental disorder.
"We have an obligation as a society to find a way to include people with different abilities," said the school’s athletic director, Randolph Hutto, whose 12-year-old son, Joshua, is autistic. "This, hopefully, will help open doors for some people, or open some eyes.""
