The Best Win of the Season

It was the summer of 2022, and the air in Augusta was thick with heat and the sounds of competition. I spent my weekends at Butler High School, focused on watching my son play in summer basketball games—completely unaware that life was about to introduce me to my forever teammate.

That’s when I first noticed James. He was there supporting a friend who was coaching, but even in a crowded gym, there was something about his presence that stood out. That first weekend, we locked eyes across the court, but the moment passed without a word.

When the next weekend rolled around and I saw him back at the school, I knew it wasn’t just a coincidence. During halftime, our eyes met again, and the connection was undeniable. By the end of the game, James finally made his move and came over to introduce himself. We didn’t trade phone numbers that day; instead, we exchanged Facebook info, and he sent me a friend request before the day was over.

What started as simple messages quickly turned into talking every single day. We realized early on that we had found something incredibly special in one another. Now, four years after those quiet glances in a high school gym, we are ready to begin our greatest chapter yet and officially become one. We can't wait to celebrate this new beginning with all of you!