High school basketball player jumps into action to save opponent’s life after harrowing on-court collapse

A critical moment during a high school basketball game in Oklahoma led to an incredible act of heroism by Magnus Miller, a fellow player who rushed to the aid of Randy Vitales, a 16-year-old who went into cardiac arrest on Jan. 9.

The incident took place during a game between Dover High School and Life Christian Academy in Orlando, Oklahoma. Vitales collapsed just three minutes into the game, with coaches quickly realizing he did not have a pulse, as reported by King Fisher Press and Oklahoma City news station KOCO-5.

Miller, who had previously undergone lifeguard training, sprang into action. He used an automated external defibrillator and performed CPR on Vitales until medical personnel arrived at the gymnasium. Thanks to Miller’s quick thinking and decisive actions, Vitales’s heartbeat was restored.

The Guthrie Fire Department commended Miller for his heroic efforts, stating that he undoubtedly saved Vitales’s life. Despite the praise, Miller remained humble, stating that there was no hesitation on his part when he saw Vitales in distress.

“It’s weird hearing someone say you saved their life,” Miller said. “But it wasn’t really me. It was God just being there for me and him. Obviously, I didn’t go there to play basketball that day.”

Vitales was rushed to an Oklahoma City hospital and placed in the intensive care unit. Doctors determined that an abnormal heartbeat had caused the cardiac arrest. As of Jan. 11, Vitales was breathing on his own without the assistance of a ventilator.

Dover Public Schools released a statement on Jan. 9, acknowledging the quick response by coaches and the life-saving training they had received. The school also arranged for counselors and pastors to be available to support students upon their return.

Despite the harrowing experience, Vitales is on the road to recovery, with ongoing tests and medical attention ensuring his progress. Miller’s selfless actions serve as a reminder of the importance of being prepared and willing to act in times of crisis.

As the community rallies around Vitales and Miller, the story of their remarkable bond and the power of compassion in the face of adversity continues to inspire all who hear it.