Nick’s journey with cancer and the life-changing care he received at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital has inspired a college basketball doubleheader exhibition that will benefit cancer survivors like him. The event, which will feature the Memphis Tigers facing off against No. 9 North Carolina followed by the women’s team playing South Carolina, is a fundraiser for St. Jude dedicated to caring for children.
The exhibition game is part of a larger movement in college basketball where NCAA rule changes now allow Division I teams to schedule exhibitions with 100% of ticket proceeds going to specific charities. This initiative has enabled teams like Tennessee and Arkansas to host similar events with proceeds supporting various causes related to cancer research and scholarship support for minority graduate students pursuing careers in athletics administration.
The upcoming doubleheader is not just a basketball game, but a celebration of hope and resilience. Nick, who battled acute lymphoblastic leukemia as a teenager, has found a new passion in music after his basketball dreams were cut short by his illness. His story has touched the hearts of many in the Memphis basketball community and beyond, inspiring them to come together to support a cause that is close to their hearts.
The fundraiser is just the beginning of what organizers hope will become an annual event to raise awareness and funds for childhood cancer research. With cancer being the leading disease killing children in the U.S., initiatives like these are crucial in supporting organizations like St. Jude in their mission to provide life-saving treatments to children around the world.
Through the power of sports and community, events like the upcoming doubleheader exhibition bring people together to make a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. As Nick, his family, and supporters come together to celebrate his journey and raise funds for a cause that is so important to them, they are spreading hope and inspiration to all those who face similar challenges. This event is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and a community of support ready to lift you up.
