A Basketball, Book, and Passion: How Jeraldo Henry, Jr, Teaches Us a Lesson in Hoops,

Jeraldo Henry, Jr., an 18-year-old from Red Oak, Texas, is proving that determination, talent, and the right support system can break barriers. Born with spina bifida, Jeraldo was once told he might never sit up or walk. Today, he’s a standout wheelchair basketball player, a published author, and is now pursuing a degree at the University of Missouri as a student-athlete. He has his sights set on being a member of the United States 2028 Paralympic Basketball Team that will compete in the 2028 Paralympics in Los Angeles. 

Jeraldo’s journey led him to the Texas Online Preparatory School (TOPS), where the flexibility of virtual learning allowed him to balance academics with a demanding athletic schedule. Whether traveling for national tournaments or training daily with his father, Jeraldo maintained a 4.03 GPA. For Jeraldo and his family, the flexibility and quality of education offered by TOPS empowered him to thrive both in and out of the classroom. 

“TOPS gave him the flexibility to make it happen,” said his mother, Christina Henry.  

That flexibility enabled Jeraldo to compete with elite teams like the Dallas Jr. Wheelchair Mavericks and the Texas Outlaws, while also co-authoring The NARWHALS’ Way: A Framework for Teenage Happiness, a motivational guide for teens. 

Now committed to Mizzou’s wheelchair basketball team, Jeraldo plans to study nutrition and exercise physiology. Jeraldo is an example of resilience, vision, and the power of a supportive family, as well as an education system that makes learning more accessible and personal to meet one’s needs.  

“It’s not about how you start,” Christina said. “It’s about how you live.” 

As Jeraldo continues his journey toward Team USA, he remains a role model for not only young athletes everywhere but also anyone facing challenges. Jeraldo’s story shows that with passion, perseverance, and the right tools, anything is possible. 

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