A big controversy erupted at the College World Series.
Freshman outfielder Derek Curiel was banned from using his traditional walk-up music. Curiel is a devout Christian. He’s been very outspoken about his religious beliefs.
And for his entire freshman season – the young ballplayer has stepped onto the field with a song written by Kayne West. It’s called “God Is.”
Curiel announced on social media that he was forbidden from using the song because of its Christian lyrics.
He told a television reporter that he was only allowed to play the instrumental version – without the Christian lyrics.
“It’s called ‘God is’ by Kanye West,” Derek Curiel said. “I’m a little upset that the NCAA didn’t allow that song to be played. They only played the instrumental version. They didn’t let the words play. But it’s OK.”
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The song includes a Bible verse — Psalm 150 Verse 6 — that is important to Curiel’s beliefs.
“God Is – everything that has breath, praise the Lord. That’s a verse in the Bible and that’s just something I want everyone to know,“ he said. ”You worship Christ, and that’s what I’m here to do. I just want people to know me as a guy who plays baseball that loves Jesus.”
The NCAA denied that the lyrics had anything to do with their decision. They said it was because of the artist – Kanye. Well, if that’s the case – why allow the instrumental version of Kanye’s song?
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said that she has made personal inquiries about the ban.
“The NCAA’s handling of this has been poor,” she wrote on X noting that she has Curiel’s back. “Just keep it up. You’re a great role model.”
She said the NCAA’s handling of the matter has been poor and they made a terrible call.
“The NCAA made a terrible call no matter how they explain it,” the attorney general wrote on X. “DerekCuriel’s chosen song was “God is.” Truth is truth, no matter who sings it. They owe him an apology.”
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Curiel played a critical role in LSU’s national championship but he said he only wants to be known as a guy who plays baseball and loves Jesus.
Syndicated with permission from ToddStarnes.com – founded by best-selling author and journalist Todd Starnes. Starnes is the recipient of an RTNDA Edward R. Murrow Award and the Associated Press Mark Twain Award for Storytelling.
