DALLAS — We know all about the starting five for the Houston Cougars men's basketball team on the court, but a guy who stands around 5 feet tall is also having a big impact on UH with a larger-than-life role.
Jace Abarca is in the sixth grade. It was last year that he was made an honorary ballboy for the Coogs.
"It's really cool," Jace said. "I get excited when I go to every game."
Jace suffers from lupus and a kidney condition, something his role with the team has helped him deal with.
"It's really great," he said. "I'm so happy that they can support me and I'm supporting them."
Some of his best friends include Coach Kelvin Sampson and players like Emanuel Sharp.
While he was also able to attend last year's Sweet 16 thanks to Team Impact, he's hoping this year, he and mom can help impact a different outcome. That's because last year, the Coogs lost to Miami in this round. This year, Jace thinks things will be a little different for UH.
"83 to 62," Jace said, predicting a Houston win. "Go Coogs."