NFL, NBA Players Remember Sandy Hook Victims

As the nation continues to recover from the horrific shootings in Newtown, Conn., members of the sports world are carrying on in the victims’ memories.

New York Giant wide receiver Victor Cruz (pictured) was seen with Jack Pinto’s name on his shoes and gloves during yesterday’s match against the Atlanta Falcons, reports TIME. One particular message said, “Jack Pinto ‘My Hero,'” while the other read “R.I.P. Jack Pinto.”

Cruz’s tribute was a small gesture to the 6-year-old who adored the football star. Cruz phoned Pinto’s family and asked if there was anything he could do to help. “I was in the hotel, and as I was talking to them, I was fighting back tears,” said Cruz to the New York Daily News. “You could hear everybody in the background crying as well. It was tough to listen to.”

According to People, Pinto was laid to rest today, along with Noah Pozner—the first set of kids killed in Friday’s shooting to be buried.

NBA stars also held a moment of silence for the victims during yesterday’s game between the Miami Heat and the Washington Wizards. Heat players LeBron James and Dwyane Wade brought their kids out to the court during the pause. “[Dwyane] Wade brought up the idea,” said James. “We all thought it would be the best thing to do. Not taking anything for granted, knowing that we have our family still. Very emotional time and to have our kids out there was great.”