The U.S. men’s basketball team plays its first of five pre-Olympic exhibition games on Wednesday against Canada in Las Vegas. Before this crucial game, Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise visit to Team USA’s practice on Tuesday.

Upon her arrival, Harris delivered some powerful words to urge the team to bring home the gold by beating Canada.

“Our nation is cheering you on. We are so proud of you. Beat Canada and bring back that gold,” she said.

In addition to her motivating speech, Harris created a memorable moment for everyone involved. She took the time to shake hands with the players and pose for a group photo with the team.

Despite her busy schedule, which includes meetings with voters in both Las Vegas and Dallas this week, Harris made it a point to stop by and support Team USA.

Steve Kerr and Erik Spoelstra Praise Kamala Harris’s Visit to Team USA Camp

Kamala Harris’s arrival was a pleasant surprise not only for Team USA players but also for the team’s assistant coach, Erik Spoelstra. Harris’s encouraging words left a significant impact on Spoelstra, as she expressed complete trust in the players and coaches’ abilities.

“It was a pretty special moment for the entire group. She just mentioned that we represent our country and everybody’s going to be watching and rooting for us and it’s a big responsibility. But she knows that we all are putting in the work to represent everybody here and do it with class,” Spoelstra said.

Similarly, coach Steve Kerr shared the same feelings and shared that their primary objective is now to win gold for the USA.

“Vice President Harris told the guys how much she admired them, how much they really embody excellence and that we are going over there to try to win a gold medal for our country,” Kerr said.