Special Olympians take center stage at USCB basketball game

BEAUFORT, S.C. (WTOC) - Special Olympics athletes from Beaufort, Jasper, and surrounding counties showcased their skills Saturday, Feb. 14, during halftime of University of South Carolina Beaufort’s basketball games.

The athletes, who represent a Lowcountry team that regularly practices at USCB’s gym on Monday nights, performed basketball demonstrations during the women’s and men’s games.

While the participants engage in various sports year-round, basketball was the focus of the halftime shows.

“What made this special is that they were surrounded by roaring fans,” organizers noted, contrasting the Saturday appearance with the team’s typical practice environment.

The women’s team capped off the day with a 67-55 victory, with the Special Olympians playing a role in the home squad’s success; the men sadly lost.

Both the men and women are back in action on the hardwood on Monday.