Hoop dreams come true for two high schoolers

(NECN: Marnie MacLean) - Two high school students from Maine are on their way to Detroit for the NCAA Final Four. Both love basketball, but between them, have played in just two games. Those two games inspired entire communities and have earned the boys their VIP trip. This is where Josh Titus expects to be each afternoon, his math class at Edward Little High School. The rest of his day however, is completely unexpected. With his basketball teammates leading the way, Josh was getting a big time send off. He's heading to Detroit for the NCAA final four. Owners of McDonald's restaurants in Maine are making the trip possible. This after giving Josh the first ever spirit of the game award. Josh, who is autistic, always tried out for the basketball team but never made it. This year, he served as the manager, never missing a practice, or a game. During the last home game his dedication earned him the chance to show what he could do on the court. Turns out, he's got game; Josh scored 9 points. It was his night. His moment. That moment lead to this one, hundreds on hand to honor a student who demands the best of himself...and inspires others to demand it of themselves. Then it was time to go, walking with purpose Josh made his way outside to the limo waiting to take him away. Josh isn't going alone, he needed to make a stop to pick up another team manager... This one at Greely high school in Cumberland." Patrick Thibodeau has Down's Syndrome...as the manager of the Greely Rangers for the last four years Patrick has given a lot to the team. Coincidentally, on the same night as Josh, Patrick was given his chance to suit up---his father, who had just suffered a stroke refused to miss the game. His teammates kept feeding him the ball...and Patrick took the shots--with just seconds to go--Patrick got 'his' moment. Patrick also received the spirit of the game award...and he's joining Josh in Detroit. There was one more surprise---courtesy of Maine's governor. "Now, I John Baldacci, declare April 4th Patrick Thibodeau day" Patrick will share the day with Josh, and chances are some amazing memories. Two boys who showed us all when given a chance, everyone can shine.