UNC’s Blanca Thomas embraces, embodies Hispanic culture

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WTVD) — UNC women’s basketball player Blanca Thomas knows that the sacrifices that her ancestors made are part of the reason why she is where she is today.

Thomas’ grandparents immigrated to the United States from Ecuador for a new life. Years later, the Charlotte native and Tar Heels sophomore center sees them beaming with pride watching her perform on the basketball court.

“It’s always been the best coming to them after a game and just seeing how happy they are to see me out there,” Thomas said. “It honestly means a lot.”

It’s that type of pride Thomas has shown on and off the court for the Tar Heels. She said she is proud to celebrate Latin American and Hispanic Heritage Month.

“To be able to represent this for all Hispanic people out there and show that we can be out here on this big stage as well,” she said.

At 6-foot-5, Thomas is a towering presence on the court. Off the court, she doubles as the team DJ — as that pride in Hispanic culture and heritage pours over.

“I’m blasting Hispanic music in the locker room, I’m talking in Spanish to some of my teammates who are also, who have some Hispanic heritage as well,” Thomas said.

She described reports of Bad Bunny headlining the Super Bowl as the “best news ever.”

But overall, Thomas’ message is one of power.

“It’s nothing to shy away from. Always be proud of where you came from and how hard your relatives and you worked to get to where you are,” she said. “That’s something to be very proud of, so just embrace everything that comes with it.”