Collin Hughes, a senior at Vance Charter School, overcame a life-threatening blood disorder to return to the basketball court.
He was awarded the 2026 Jersey Mike's Naismith High School Basketball Courage Award for his inspiring journey back from multiple hospitalizations to the starting lineup, earning all-conference honors and helping his team secure its first conference championship.
Collin shared with Eyewitness News his reaction upon learning about the award, calling it "a blessing from God" after many answered prayers and sleepless nights.
Following high school, he plans to attend Vance-Granville Community College to obtain his HVAC certification.
In addition to the honor, Jersey Mike's donated $2,000 to the Vance Charter School basketball program and an extra $5,000 directly to Collin.