Spurs practice, fair brings a bit of joy to Uvalde community

UVALDE, Texas — The smallest gesture can have a huge impact.

That was reaffirmed to the San Antonio Spurs when the team held an open practice and community fair in Uvalde, Texas.

It was 137 days ago that the small town, 88 miles southwest of downtown San Antonio, was the sight of an elementary school shooting. On May 24, 19 children and two teachers were killed in a shooting at Robb Elementary.

The Spurs held an open practice Saturday at Uvalde High School in support of the students of Robb Elementary and those affected by that tragic day.

«It's extremely sad,» San Antonio guard Tre Jones said. «We wish everybody was with us, still being able to enjoy this moment. We are just trying to bring joy to the families and all the kids who were friends with those kids that died and help the teachers as well. We want to bring a moment of happiness into their lives again and try to just bring a smile to their faces.»

With a transformative roster brimming with young players, San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich received the loudest ovation as the team took the court for a brief practice. The Spurs then literally lifted the community, raising toddlers on their shoulders to bring them closer to the rim for a basket.

The true elevation was felt off the court.

Monica Flores' eldest daughter is still understandably traumatized by the day's tragedy. Her daughter was in the fourth grade, the same classification as those who died. Her daughter's classroom was directly across the hall from the two adjoining rooms where the shooting took place.

«She has her moments, but we will never forget,» Flores said. «Sudden hands, different people that look like the shooter — she did see the shooter through her classroom window. She is terrified by people