Uvalde, TX — Even the smallest gesture can have a big impact.
The San Antonio Spurs reaffirmed that when the team held an open practice and community fair in Uvalde, Texas.
It was 137 days ago that an elementary school shooting occurred in a small town 88 miles southwest of downtown San Antonio. On May 24, a shooting at Robb Elementary School killed 19 children and her two teachers.
The Spurs held a public practice Saturday at Uvalde High School to support Robb Elementary School students and those affected on that tragic day.
‘Very sad,’ says San Antonio security guard Tre Jones Said. “I wish we could all be with us and still be able to enjoy this moment. We just wish our family and all the children who were friends with our lost children joy.” Try to bring happy moments back into their lives and put smiles on their faces.”
San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich received the loudest applause as the team took to the court for a short practice session. The Spurs then literally lifted the community up, carrying the toddler on their shoulders closer to the rim of the basket.
The real exhilaration was felt off the court.
Monica Flores’ eldest daughter is still understandably traumatized by the tragedy of that day. Her daughter was in fourth grade and was in the same category as those who died. We had two adjoining rooms directly across the hall.
“She has her moments that we will never forget,” Flores said. See, she’s terrified of people who look like him. [similar looks] And it’s just scary. “
Flores’ daughter is afraid to leave home. She is afraid of certain situations. But thanks to the Spurs, it was pushed aside for a few hours.
Flores’ daughter was eagerly waiting for Saturday afternoon when she heard the Spurs were coming to Uvalde just to see her and the other kids at Robb Elementary School.
Flores’ daughter and the crowd, wearing a Manu Ginobili jersey that her uncle had bought for her years ago, were surprised and delighted to see the Spurs Hall of Fame guard in attendance. Special Advisor Ginobili spent the entire event signing autographs and taking pictures with the attendees.
Flores’ daughter sprinted for Ginobili at midcourt when it was her group’s turn to take to the court to meet the players.
And just like hundreds of fans have been doing for over a decade, Flores’ daughter beamed with joy when she posed with Ginobili.
“I’m so happy she got to go through this with Manu,” Flores said.
It was a common sentiment for the Spurs.
San Antonio said, “I’m so happy to be here and see the smiles on the faces of the children.” Keldon Johnson Said. “I know it’s been hard. If I can come here and bring a little bit of joy, it’s a successful day for us.”
The May 24th tragedy is something the Uvalde community will never get over, but residents are trying to get over it.
“Tomorrow, on the court and off the court, we will fly,” said Spurs chief impact officer Kara Allen. So, on behalf of the wonderful human beings on the court and your wonderful human beings, thank you for allowing us to choose to rejoice with you today.”
