Nathan, who lives in Richmond, was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2004. Since last fall, Nathan has been a member of the Spider men's basketball team, but the adoption was made official on Wednesday night in the team lounge.

Nathan has attended games, joined the team in the locker room after games and stayed in touch with members of the team through text messages and a care page online.

Wednesday night the Spiders presented Nathan with an autographed jersey and listened as Nathan and his mother Charity talked about their brain tumor journey.

Nathan will be recognized prior to tip-off at the Dayton game.

The Friends of Jaclyn Foundation is a non-profit, charitable organization that improves the quality of life for children with pediatric brain tumors and their families. FOJ is all about love, support, and friendship. FOJ matches a child with a college or high school sports team based on geographic location.

According to the Friends of Jaclyn Foundation website, "a deep bond is formed between the child, the child's family and the sports team. The relationship is a priceless gift. The gift is in the relationship; a child is gaining a loving support network and the team is gaining an insight into the value of life and the power of love. The result of this connection is mutual respect, support, friendship and love."