Sebastien De La Cruz returned to the national stage last night to sing the national anthem, two days after being subjected to racist and hate-filled Tweets.
The 11-year old was back behind the microphone (introduced by San Antonio Mayor Julian Castro) despite the fact that many people online reacted in shock and disgust over someone with Mexican heritage being given such a platform.
But De La Cruz handled the controversy with grace and maturity, the same way he handled this rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner:
Said Spurs coach Greg Popovich prior to tip-off:
"Given the fact that there’s still a significant element of bigotry and racism in our nation, I’m not surprised. It still plagues us, obviously. And what I was surprised by was how proud these idiots are of their ignorance, by printing their names next to their comments."
Of De La Cruz, the coach added:
"He’s a class act. Way more mature than most his age. And as much as those comments by the idiots sadden you about your country, he makes you feel that the future could be very bright."
Behind a combined 55 points from LeBron James and Dwyane Wade, meanwhile, Miami went on to win Game Four, 109-93. We’re tied at two games apiece!