With a 162-139 overall record, Maurice Cheeks’ tenure as head coach of the Portland Trail Blazers was largely unremarkable. But back on April 25th, 2003, Cheeks had a brilliant moment in the sun. That was the day that 13-year-old Natalie Zito forgot the words to the National Anthem, which she was scheduled to perform in front of Portland’s home crowd on game day.
As Zito stumbled mid-song, Cheeks left Portland’s line to put his arm around her, assisting her with encouragement, coaching her to complete the anthem to a huge round of applause.
The video below shows Cheeks’ moment of kindness.
Tonight Cheeks returned to the Moda Center as an assistant coach with the New York Knicks. To honor the occasion, the Blazers invited Zito, now in her 30’s, to share the anthem once again.
Zito delivered flawlessly, with a strong and beautiful voice, as Cheeks looked on and smiled. It was a wonderful moment for the crowd and those watching. Bravo, Blazers.