Natalie Gilbert, a 13-year-old, began singing the National Anthem before a basketball game between the Trail Blazers and the Dallas Mavericks on April 25, 2003. When Gilbert struggled to find the correct words for the song and became flustered, Trail Blazers’ Coach Maurice Cheeks came to her side.

Maurice Cheeks: Anthem Singer’s Guardian Angel

Cheeks initially suggested the lyrics to Gilbert and then joined in on the singing. Soon, the Rose Garden Arena crowd sang with them. What at first, looked to be a small disaster, turned into a touching moment — a feel-good story. Cheeks’ inspirational leadership touched many who watched. Cheeks and Gilbert received a standing ovation upon the song’s completion.

As is later revealed, the young Natalie Gilbert had been fighting the flu and was still sick the day of the performance.

When Cheeks was asked what motivated him to go over and start helping Natalie, CNN quoted Cheeks as saying, “You know, I don’t know. I think as I saw her stumble on the words, she looked helpless, and I just started walking. I had no idea what I was going to do, what I was going to say. But as I approached her, I just wanted to help her, and I didn’t know if I even knew the words…You know, I just wanted to help her out. I didn’t want her to stand there helpless, nothing to do. So I just wanted to help her out.”

Maurice Cheeks provides the assist to Natalie Gilbert Video

Maurice Cheeks Background

Prior to coaching, Cheeks played 15 years in the NBA, most notably with the Philadelphia 76ers, and earned a trip to the All-Star game 4 times. Helping a young singer in her time of need was another All-Star moment for Maurice Cheeks.

You know, in some respects it was a very small gesture. But, to the young Natalie Gilbert, it was obviously a big assist. Well done, Maurice!

— Mike O’Halloran

Mike has authored three basketball books and is editor of Sports Feel Good Stories.

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