Notre Dame sophomore and basketball player Matt Farrell received the ultimate Christmas present this year: his brother came home early from Afghanistan.
Monday night, after the team’s victory over Colgate, Matt’s brother, Bo Farrell, an Army Lieutenant stationed in Afghanistan, came on the Jumbotron to deliver what Matt thought was a video message recorded oversees.
At the end of the video, Bo told his brother, “For us, home is wherever we’re together. And I look forward to being home with you soon.”
Matt didn't realize just how soon that would be.
The video was recorded live from team’s locker room. When the message ended, Bo came out onto the court to surprise Matt and their parents who were in the crowd.
According to ABC Eyewitness News, Matt’s coach Mike Brey worked with his staff for six weeks to put together the early Christmas surprise.
Matt hasn't seen his brother since May. He wasn’t supposed to see him again until February.
"He got me," said Matt. ”We don't ask for much for Christmas, so this is the best present I've ever gotten.”