• Video
  • Shop
  • Culture
  • Family
  • Wellness
  • Food
  • Living
  • Style
  • Travel
  • News
  • Book Club
  • Newsletter
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • Terms of Use
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Contact Us
  • © 2026 ABC News
  • News
  • Good News

High school cancer survivor hits 3-point buzzer beater in basketball championship

1:34
High school cancer survivor scores buzzer beater
Torrey Pines High School
ByEric Noll and Haley Yamada
July 14, 2021, 11:21 PM

San Diego high school student Nick Herrmann was told by some doctors he might never play basketball again.

On June 14, the 16-year-old cancer survivor stepped onto the court for the Torrey Pines High School basketball team and hit a 3-pointer at the buzzer to win the sectional championship game.

Nick Herrmann playing basketball for Torrey Pines High School in San Diego, California.
Torrey Pines High School

Herrmann was diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in his left leg in 2018 and spent nine months in the hospital, where he underwent four surgeries in just under two months.

Related Articles

MORE: Veteran celebrates 90th birthday by skydiving

"I was told I may never play basketball again and, even worse, I could have possibly lost my leg. I spent many nights, long nights, in the hospital doing chemotherapy and many hours doing physical therapy in order to rehab and get back to playing basketball," Herrmann told "World News Tonight."

Nick Herrmann and his teammates celebrate after winning the basketball division championship.
Torrey Pines High School

Herrmann was back on the court this year to help his team to an undefeated season and the win in the San Diego open division championship game.

Looking ahead, he said he's planning to play basketball in college this fall and shared a message of motivation to inspire others who may be going through tough times.

"To all those people going through similar things, I want you to know that you can do anything," he said. "Never stop pushing and never stop working towards your dreams."

Up Next in News—

Gas station clerk speaks out after foiling alleged kidnapping

April 15, 2026

Oklahoma high school principal takes down would-be shooter, hailed as hero

April 15, 2026

Family seeks answers after influencer Ashlee Jenae is found dead on vacation in Tanzania

April 15, 2026

Couple shares warning after nearly losing down payment in mortgage fraud

April 10, 2026

Shop GMA Favorites

ABC will receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Sponsored Content by Taboola

The latest lifestyle and entertainment news and inspiration for how to live your best life - all from Good Morning America.
  • Contests
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell My Info
  • Children’s Online Privacy Policy
  • Advertise with us
  • Your US State Privacy Rights
  • Interest-Based Ads
  • About Nielsen Measurement
  • Press
  • Feedback
  • Shop FAQs
  • ABC News
  • ABC
  • All Videos
  • All Topics
  • Sitemap

© 2026 ABC News
  • Privacy Policy— 
  • Your US State Privacy Rights— 
  • Children's Online Privacy Policy— 
  • Interest-Based Ads— 
  • Terms of Use— 
  • Do Not Sell My Info— 
  • Contact Us— 

© 2026 ABC News