A significant uproar has emerged at the College World Series.
Freshman outfielder Derek Curiel found himself at the center of controversy after being prohibited from using his customary walk-up music. A devout Christian, Curiel has been vocal about his faith throughout his freshman year.
For the entirety of his debut season, Curiel has entered the field to a song penned by Kanye West, aptly titled “God Is.” This musical choice aligns closely with his personal beliefs and values.
However, Curiel took to social media to express his discontent after learning that the NCAA had barred him from using the song’s lyrics. Instead, he was only permitted to play the instrumental version, devoid of any vocal expression.
“It’s called ‘God is’ by Kanye West,” Curiel stated. “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 lyrics of the song include a Bible verse—Psalm 150:6—that resonates deeply with Curiel’s faith.
“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 elaborated. “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, however, has refuted claims that the lyrical content influenced their decision, attributing the ban solely to the artist—Kanye West. Yet, one must wonder: if the lyrics were the issue, why permit the instrumental version of the same song?
In light of this situation, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has taken a personal interest, voicing her concerns about the NCAA’s handling of the matter.
“The NCAA’s handling of this has been poor,” she remarked on X, expressing her support for Curiel. “Just keep it up. You’re a great role model.”
She criticized the organization for what she deemed a poor decision and stated, “The NCAA made a terrible call no matter how they explain it. Derek Curiel’s chosen song was ‘God is.’ Truth is truth, no matter who sings it. They owe him an apology.”
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While Curiel played a pivotal role in LSU’s national championship, he emphasized that he merely wishes to be recognized as a baseball player who deeply 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.
