Buckeye Trail's Josey Rome Overcomes Disability to Become Basketball Star

Senior player leads team in scoring and 3-pointers despite being born with TAR Syndrome

Feb. 20, 2026 at 10:25pm

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Josey Rome, a senior basketball player for Buckeye Trail High School, has overcome significant physical challenges from birth to become one of the top scorers and 3-point shooters in her conference. Born with TAR Syndrome, which caused a lack of radius bones in her arms and clubbed hands, Rome endured years of medical procedures and physical therapy to become a standout on the court, leading her team in points and 3-pointers this season.

Why it matters

Rome's story is an inspiring example of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Despite the physical obstacles she has faced, she has refused to let her disability define her, instead channeling her energy into becoming a skilled basketball player and leader on her team. Her journey highlights the power of hard work, a strong support system, and a positive mindset to overcome challenges.

The details

Rome was born with TAR Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that caused a lack of radius bones in her arms and clubbed hands. As a baby, she required frequent trips to the hospital for platelet transfusions just to stay stable. Over the years, she underwent multiple surgeries and extensive physical therapy, including a groundbreaking ulnarization procedure at age 18 months and limb lengthening at age 8. Despite the physical challenges, Rome never viewed herself through the lens of a disability, crediting her mother's insistence on self-reliance and her family's "no-shortcut" mentality for her determination.

  • Rome was born with TAR Syndrome.
  • At 18 months old, she underwent a ulnarization procedure in Florida.
  • At age 8, she returned to Florida for a three-month stint of limb lengthening surgery.
  • This season, as a senior, Rome is leading her team in scoring and 3-pointers.

The players

Josey Rome

A senior basketball player at Buckeye Trail High School who was born with TAR Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder that caused a lack of radius bones in her arms and clubbed hands. Despite the physical challenges, she has become a standout player, leading her team in scoring and 3-pointers this season.

John Rome

Josey's father, who credits the local medical team and a pioneering doctor in Florida for helping keep Josey alive and enabling her physical development.

Christy Rome

Josey's mother, who has served as her "rock" through years of physical therapy and surgeries, and instilled in her a sense of self-reliance.

Franko Rome

Josey's older brother, who was a standout athlete at Buckeye Trail and is now in his final semester at Marietta College. He has been a role model and helped instill a strong work ethic in Josey.

Craig Taylor

The head coach and athletic director at Buckeye Trail High School, who describes Josey as a "gym rat" with a high basketball IQ and the ability to think like a coach on the court.

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What they’re saying

“Without Dr. Douglas Rush and Medical Associates of Cambridge, Josey would not be here.”

— John Rome, Josey's father (Yahoo Sports)

“Without Dr. Paley and my wife Christy's dedication to treating Josey with a 'you can do anything' attitude, she would not be where she is today.”

— John Rome, Josey's father (Yahoo Sports)

“Josey never wanted to be felt sorry for. TAR Syndrome is something she has, but it doesn't define who she is.”

— John Rome, Josey's father (Yahoo Sports)

“My mom has been my rock on the physical stuff. She's always told me, 'I won't always be here to tie your shoes. You need to be able to do it yourself.' She was great about not letting me be lazy and taking the easy way out. Making sure I become more self-reliant.”

— Josey Rome (Yahoo Sports)

“Franko is my biggest role model. He and my Dad instilled in me a belief that you have to put the work in yourself while no one's watching for it to show up out on the court when it matters. They helped me understand, that if you truly want to be successful you have to put in the hard work.”

— Josey Rome (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

Josey Rome and the Buckeye Trail Warriors will face a tough challenge this Saturday, February 21st at 1 p.m. when they travel to take on the No. 2 seed Monroe Central in the OHSAA Division IV girls basketball tournament. Despite being heavy underdogs, Rome and her team are hopeful of pulling off the upset and extending their season.

The takeaway

Josey Rome's story is a testament to the power of determination, hard work, and a strong support system. Despite facing immense physical challenges from birth, she has refused to let her disability define her, instead channeling her energy into becoming a standout basketball player. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others facing adversity, showing that with the right mindset and work ethic, anything is possible.