Basketball players halt game to protect cheerleader from bullies

Three middle school basketball players turned what could have been a disgraceful incident into one of this year’s most heartwarming moments.

During a boys basketball game at Wisconsin’s Lincoln Middle School, a group of bullies started mocking cheerleader Desiree Andrews, who has Down syndrome. When three Lincoln players noticed, they walked off the court in the middle of the game to stand up for their classmate.

Now, Desiree counts Scooter Terrien, Chase Vazquez and Miles Rodriguez among her close friends. They often walk to class together, and the school gym has even been given a nickname in Desiree’s honor.

(via espnW)