The fans of Larry Nance Jr. have been accustomed to seeing him on the court throwing down nasty slams and relentlessly fighting for rebounds. However, what many do not know is that he has a big heart, and even touched a soldier’s life back in 2003, when he was still 10 years old.

Nance sent letters to Bianca Snow then, and she recently showed them off in a tweet. The U.S. soldier also congratulated the Los Angeles Lakers forward for making his dream of becoming a professional basketball player come true.

The 6-foot-9 power forward then responded by inviting her to watch him play live next season, which will give the former pen pals a chance to finally meet in person.

This is truly a heartwarming story as even at a young age, Nance already took time to give strength to a soldier who was serving the country, and away from her family. Snow on the other hand, valued his letter so much that he made sure she kept them until this day. Should the two eventually meet, it will be 14 years in the making, and will allow for them to thank each other personally.