Jacksonville native Patric Young is using his platform to deliver a message grounded in gratitude and faith after a car accident left his legs paralyzed.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Monday, we paused from the scores and highlights to share a story that goes beyond the game one centered on perspective, resilience, and purpose.
At a time when many are facing challenges both seen and unseen, former Florida Gators standout and ESPN college basketball analyst Patric Young is using his platform to deliver a message grounded in gratitude and faith.
A Jacksonville native and Providence alum, Young has long been known for his leadership and positivity. But in June 2022, his life changed dramatically after a car accident in Nebraska left him paralyzed from the waist down.
“It could have cost me my life,” Young said. “So just being alive… that’s something I’m grateful for every day.”
The accident forced a sudden shift in identity for the former 6-foot-9 athlete, who built his life around basketball. But rather than allowing the moment to define him, Young says it reshaped him.
“I had to be reborn after being torn down,” he explained. “When everything you used to define yourself is gone, you have to ask—what is your identity based on?”
Young admits the journey hasn’t been easy. He faced questions about his future, his purpose, and even his sense of self. But through it all, he leaned into gratitude.
“There are millions of people who would switch places with me,” he said. “That makes me want to be a good steward of my life and not live in the past.”
That perspective is something those who know Young say has always stood out. Even years ago, during a motivational speech ahead of Providence’s Final Four run, his message carried a deeper meaning.
Now, that message resonates even more.
“My goal is to live a genuine and authentic life with humility and confidence,” Young said. “I still have insecurities. But I also think about how many lives can be impacted through this.”
Today, Young continues to inspire others through speaking engagements, writing, and his foundation, which supports people navigating life-altering challenges.
His advice for those struggling in today’s climate is simple but powerful:
“Don’t let anyone tell your narrative. Don’t let anyone tell your story.”
For Young, the mission is no longer just about basketball, it’s about impact.
And in his words, that purpose has become more meaningful than anything he accomplished on the court.