More than two decades after former NBA coach Maurice Cheeks famously helped a young girl finish the national anthem, Natalie Zito got her redemption moment—and this time, she nailed it!
A Full-Circle Moment in NBA History
Back in 2003, a 13-year-old Natalie Zito (then known as Natalie Gilbert) was chosen to sing The Star-Spangled Banner before Game 3 of the Portland Trail Blazers’ playoff series. However, in a moment of stage fright, she forgot the lyrics in front of a packed arena.
That’s when Maurice Cheeks, the Blazers’ head coach at the time, walked up beside her, put his arm around her, and helped her finish the song—a heartwarming display of kindness that became one of the most iconic moments in NBA history.
A Flawless Redemption 21 Years Later
Now, in 2024, Zito returned to the Moda Center to perform the anthem once again before the Blazers vs. Knicks game—and this time, she sang with confidence and ease.
What made the moment even more special? Maurice Cheeks—now an assistant coach for the Knicks—was in the arena to witness it.
After her performance, Zito and Cheeks reunited and posed for a picture together, marking a touching full-circle moment.
Natalie Zito Reflects on the 2003 Incident
Speaking about her original performance, Zito expressed gratitude rather than regret:
“This moment changed my life, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I would not go back in time and change it at all.”
As for seeing Cheeks again, she said:
“Seeing him and seeing that he’s still a standup guy today, just like he was back then—amazing!”
A Lasting Legacy of Kindness
Maurice Cheeks’ act of sportsmanship and compassion has remained an inspirational story for over 20 years. Now, with Zito’s flawless redemption performance, the story comes full circle—proving that moments of kindness and second chances truly last a lifetime.
