Despite already having a full house with seven kids, Michelle knew that Jimmy needed a family — and she was more than willing to offer hers: "They accepted me into their family," Jimmy told ESPN. "And it wasn't because of basketball. She was just very loving. She just did stuff like that. I couldn't believe it."

Michelle helped Jimmy get to Marquette; from there, he became the star athlete he was always meant to be. On his senior night, Michelle walked Jimmy out on the court.

"That night was a complete blur," she told ESPN. "I cried the entire time. He had accomplished so much. I was both happy and proud. Everyone doubted him. His coach and principal in high school said he'd never amount to anything. And there he is, with the crowd cheering."

She added, "But I was also sad and scared. Your baby is gone, and now he faces the horrible world. Jimmy always talks about what we did for him. I'm not sure he understands what he did for us. He changed our life, too. We are better people for having him in our family."

Of their relationship, Jimmy said, "We are all attached at the hip. I give [Michelle] the credit for helping me become who I am. I love her. You would think that she gave me birth. I talk to her every morning. She's very loving. That's my family. That's Michelle Lambert. She is my mom."