By: Josh Goldfine

Delroy James is a four-year veteran of TBT. But, it’s the first time that he has played for a cause that is so personal.

James, the former University of Rhode Island star whose son, Jaylen, is autistic, organized Autism Army to raise awareness and support for those battling developmental disabilities. On Monday afternoon, James tallied a game-high 19 points, including the winning layup, to send Autism Army on to Round 3.

“We do this because we love it,” said James. “Now, I’ve got my son behind me. It’s a different type of feeling.”

James also pulled down six rebounds in the win for Autism Army, a first-year TBT entry which came back from a 14-point deficit. James had some help from his teammates in securing the Round 2 victory. J’Covan Brown chipped in with 18 points in the win.

“This is about the brothers that I battle with,” said Brown.

Brown’s three-year-old daughter, Cassidy, was recently diagnosed with autism. 

“This is about her,” said the University of Texas star. “That’s my job to provide for her. With her battling with autism, I have to push for her more. I think about her every time [I shoot].”