In a touching reunion that brought the crowd to its feet, Natalie Gilbert returned to the Moda Center in Portland last night to sing the National Anthem, 22 years after her unforgettable performance during the 2003 NBA Playoffs. This time, she delivered a flawless rendition, with none other than Maurice “Mo” Cheeks, the man who famously came to her aid all those years ago, watching proudly from the sidelines.
The original moment in 2003 has become a cherished piece of NBA history. Then just 13 years old, Gilbert was tasked with singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” before Game 3 of the Western Conference first-round series between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Dallas Mavericks. Overwhelmed by the occasion, she stumbled over the lyrics.
That’s when Mo Cheeks, then the head coach of the Trail Blazers, stepped in. Placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder, he joined her in singing, encouraging her to finish the anthem as the crowd lent their voices in support. The moment, which could have been a nightmare for a young performer, turned into a heartwarming display of kindness.
Fast forward to last night, and the scene was equally moving. Now 35 years old and known as Natalie Zito, Gilbert returned to the same arena to perform the anthem once more.
This time, she sang with confidence and grace, earning a rousing ovation from the Portland crowd. Cameras captured Cheeks, now an assistant coach with the New York Knicks, smiling and applauding as he watched the performance.
Speaking to the Trail Blazers’ broadcast team, Gilbert reflected on the impact of that 2003 moment.
“When I felt helpless and hopeless, Coach Cheeks walked right over without hesitation and helped me finish the song,” she said. “That moment changed my life. And I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Seeing him again and knowing he’s still the standup guy he was back then—it’s amazing.”
As the Moda Center erupted in applause, it was clear that this full-circle moment had touched the hearts of everyone present. Natalie Gilbert and Mo Cheeks reminded us all of the beauty of second chances and the lasting impact of a simple act of kindness.
