Grab some tissues, because someone is cutting onions in here. The Texas Tech basketball program gave guard Brandone Francis a heartwarming surprise on Senior night that brought out raw emotion from the player.
According to an ESPN broadcast, Francis had not seen his mother, Kenia Ramirez, for two years. Ramirez was in the Dominican Republic and the university worked overtime to help settle her visa issues in order for her to make the trip to the United States for her son’s special game.
Red Raiders head coach Chris Beard brought Francis onto the United Supermarkets Arena court prior to the game and as they were looking around the arena Francis noticed his mother walking through the stands. He was immediately overcome with emotion before embracing his mother on the court.
Texas Tech took to social media to share the incredible moment.
A special surprise on senior nightThese are the moments that make sports special.
— Texas Tech Basketball (@TexasTechMBB) March 5, 2019
Francis logged 29 minutes in the Red Raiders’ 70-51 win over the Texas Longhorns and added 12 points and four rebounds. The night got even better for Francis and his teammates following the final whistle, with NBA legend Dennis Rodman visiting the locker room.
If Texas Tech scores a win in the season finale on Saturday, March 9 over Iowa State, they will earn a share of the Big 12 title. Texas Tech is currently ranked No. 8 in the nation.