Red Dirt Diaries: Fourth Grader's Shot Goes Viral

News 9 has an update on a fourth grader's improbable shot during a game in Grady County last week.

Friday, March 20th 2015, 6:47 pm

By: Karl Torp


News 9 has an update on a fourth grader's improbable shot during a game in Grady County last week.

Christopher Barnes of the Pioneer School in Norge was playing against Friend Elementary.

In a show of sportsmanship, Friend players let Christopher take a shot during the game.

Barnes suffers from cerebral palsy and has autism.

“He's my inspiration,” said Christopher's mom Elizabeth Ruth, who was in tears when the shot went in.

Video of the made basket has been shared and viewed countless time on social media.

“It went awesome, but it took the lung breath out of me,” said Christopher about the shot.

“He doesn't let it hold him back,” Ruth told News 9. She said her son has gone through numerous surgeries on his legs.

Christopher went through his pre-shot routine for News 9 cameras. His attempt started near half court.

He didn't get close to making another shot, which made his basket in the game that much more special.

“It was shocking,” said Christopher about his made basket.

Christopher has never made a basket in practice or in a game.

Christopher said two people asked him autographs the next day at school.

He isn't even sure he'll play basketball next year. He said he enjoys soccer more.

But no matter the sport, Christopher remembered the same motivational message: “You choose what will set you back and move you forward,” said Christopher.

News 9 is always looking for unique Oklahomans and places. If you have a story to tell, go to our Red Dirt Diaries page and fill out the form.

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