Nick Gilbert, Son Of Cavs Owner, To Undergo Brain Surgery

CLEVELAND, OH — Nick Gilbert, the son of Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert, will undergo brain surgery this week at a Detroit hospital. The 21 year old suffers from a genetic disorder known as neurofibromatosis or NF, which can produce tumors throughout the body.

Gilbert won the hearts of Clevelanders in 2011 when, as a 14-year-old, he represented the Cavaliers at the annual NBA draft lottery. A reporter explained the teenager's background to a national audience, noting how he had managed to deal with NF since birth and had become an ambassador for the National Children's Tumor Foundation. The reporter then asked him how it felt to be his father's hero.

With a coy demeanor and a Cheshire grin, Nick responded, "I mean, what's not to like?" The response drew chuckles at the time but became a mantra for Northeast Ohioans throughout the following season, particularly after the Cavaliers drew the number one pick in the draft (which became Kyrie Irving).

Nearly seven years later, Nick Gilbert is getting ready for laser ablation brain surgery, ESPN reports. The 21 year old will undergo the procedure on Thursday.

Nick has had one life-saving brain surgery once before in his young life. He also has had chemotheraphy on and off for 15 years.

On Monday, as news of Nick's impending procedure became public, several people and groups associated with the Gilberts sent messages of support to the 21-year-old.

"What's not to like? The genetic disease NF1. That's what. And that's why we're behind Nick Gilbert as he battles hard. Get 'em Nick! We're cheering for you all the way! Always," the official Cleveland Cavaliers Twitter account said.

Former Cavaliers General Manager David Griffin also took to social media to say, "Nick is the survivors’ survivor. He’ll beat this again and then we can toast him with “what’s not to like?” Thoughts and prayers with their family."

The NBA community and Cleveland fans spread an outpouring of support to Nick Gilbert and his family, offering him prayers, thoughts and moral support.

Photo caption: Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert congratulates his son Nick Gilbert after the team won the NBA basketball draft lottery, Tuesday, May 21, 2013 in New York. (AP Photo/Jason DeCrow)