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Coaches vs. Cancer

For over 30 years, the Coaches vs. Cancer program, in collaboration with the NABC, has united coaches and fans nationwide to help the American Cancer Society defeat a common enemy – cancer.

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Background

The Coaches vs. Cancer program is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. This initiative leverages the personal experiences, community leadership, and professional excellence of coaches nationwide to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living through year-round awareness efforts, fundraising activities, and advocacy programs. Since 1993, coaches have raised over $167 million for the American Cancer Society.

Norm Stewart, former head coach of the University of Missouri’s men’s basketball program, cancer survivor, and member of the NABC, provided the vision and inspiration for the Coaches vs. Cancer concept.

He started the program by challenging fans to pledge a dollar amount for every three-point shot made by his team during the season. The concept evolved into a nationwide effort uniting coaches, fans, players, and communities across the country to fight cancer.

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Suits And Sneakers Week: Suit Up Jan. 27-Feb. 2, 2025

Coaches vs. Cancer Suits And Sneakers Week is a nationwide event when basketball coaches across the country unite for a common cause – saving lives from cancer! To raise awareness  and bring attention to the cause during this week, we are asking coaches to return to suiting up during their games – and of course, wear their most eye-catching sneakers. Use the links below to learn more how you can implement a Coaches vs. Cancer game during Suits And Sneakers Week, or anytime during the season that works best for your school!

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Coaches vs. Cancer Playbook "I Suit Up For" Printable Signs "Today I Honor" Printable Signs "I Play For" Printable Signs Media Kit

Get Involved

Every cancer. Every life. We are a leading cancer fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.  We are improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support, to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer.

By choosing to support the Coaches vs. Cancer program, you are helping the American Cancer Society improve the lives of cancer patients and their families.

  • Mission

    Coaches vs. Cancer uses the influence of college basketball and its millions of fans and partners to improve the lives of people with cancer and their families.  This helps the American Cancer Society provide all kinds of support for patients, families, and caregivers:

  • Engagement

    Coaches vs. Cancer develops relationships with coaches, stakeholders, and influencers through various engagement opportunities such as:

    • Events at the Final Four
    • National Coaches vs. Cancer Coaches Council and sub-committees
    • Wives, Friends and Family Committee

  • Awareness

    Coaches vs. Cancer works to increase awareness by telling the meaningful stories of the American Cancer Society impact on communities nationwide through:

    • Suits And Sneakers Week
    • Media Partnerships
    • Social and Digital Marketing
    • Non-Conference TV Tournaments

  • Revenue

    Coaches vs. Cancer has several key fundraising programs and initiatives that happen each year:

    • Distinguished Events (Galas and Golf Events)
    • Set the Screen
    • National Golf Initiatives
    • Corporate Sponsorships
    • Digital Fundraisers

  • Coaches vs. Cancer Council

    Formed in 1998, the Coaches vs. Cancer Council includes many of the best-known and most successful men’s basketball coaches nationwide. Over the years, the council has helped guide, enhance, and expand the program. Click here to see the Council roster.