Chris's drug test had revealed evidence of human chorionic gonadotropin, also known as beta hCG. This hormone is found in elevated levels in pregnant women, and it's used to kick-start testosterone production after steroid use, which is why the NCAA tests look for it. It can also indicate the presence of cancer in people with certain types of germ cell tumors.

Once we learned of the positive test, Team Physician Chris Klenck, MD, and I immediately began researching beta hCG and gathering as much information as we could. Our first concern was that Chris may have unknowingly taken some type of tainted supplement. As we learned more, we realized cancer was also a strong possibility.

All this was occurring just eight hours before tip-off of our Sweet Sixteen game. Now in a state of distress, I had to focus on my pregame responsibilities to the team while acting as if nothing was wrong to protect Chris's privacy. This was one of the hardest things I have ever done.

Knowing it wouldn't harm Chris to withhold the information from him until after the game, Dr. Klenck, Athletic Director Mike Hamilton, and I decided not to address the situation immediately. Needless to say, watching the game was gut-wrenching. We lost a close one, but the final score meant little to me by that point, as all I could think about was what challenges Chris might soon be facing.