Hundreds gathered at Hemisfair Park on June 10, 2026, under a clear Texas sky to say goodbye to 11-year-old Liam Rodriguez, the devoted San Antonio Spurs fan whose battle with leukemia ended last week. In a moving tribute organized by the Spurs organization and Liam’s family, more than 2,000 silver-and-black balloons were released at sunset — each carrying a handwritten message of love and hope.

Liam, a fifth-grader from the South Side, had been a season-ticket holder since age seven. His mother, Maria Rodriguez, recalled how he never missed a game, wearing his Victor Wembanyama jersey even during chemotherapy. “He told me the Spurs gave him strength,” she said through tears. “Tonight, we gave some back to him.”

The ceremony featured a video montage of Liam’s favorite moments — cheering courtside, high-fiving players at Fan Fest, and his Make-A-Wish meeting with Wembanyama last March. Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich and several players attended, with Wembanyama placing Liam’s jersey on a memorial table. “He fought like a champion,” the rookie said quietly.

As the balloons drifted upward, the crowd sang “Deep in the Heart of Texas” and chanted “Go Spurs Go.” Many released their own balloons with personal notes. “Liam taught us what real fandom looks like,” said neighbor Carlos Mendez, who helped organize the event. “This is how San Antonio says thank you.”

The Spurs Foundation has pledged to fund a new youth oncology program in Liam’s name. For one heartbroken family and an entire city, the sky filled with silver and black became a final, beautiful salute — proof that even the shortest lives can leave the deepest mark on a community. Rest in peace, Liam. Once a Spur, always a Spur.