Sideline Cancer Split Basketball Event Celebrates Competition, Community, and $32,500 Donated to Patients

To close out the winter season, Sideline Cancer delivered something truly special — a split basketball event that celebrated not only fierce competition, but the incredible generosity and history of two powerhouse programs.

On the same night, the BG Boys hosted Hollidaysburg with LHAC playoff implications on the line, while the Hollidaysburg Girls welcomed BG in a simultaneous matchup across town. With packed gyms and playoff energy in the air, both communities came together for a unique reason. Unlike many Sideline Cancer games that spotlight a current patient battle, this evening honored something just as meaningful: a moment of peace — and the collective impact both schools have made through giving.

The boys matchup featured two red-hot teams entering the night with identical 17-3 records. BG came in riding a seven-game winning streak, showcasing dynamic guard play, toughness, and transition scoring. Hollidaysburg matched that intensity with an eight-game win streak of their own, bringing balanced scoring, strong perimeter shooting, and the kind of chemistry that defines championship-caliber teams. The playoff atmosphere was electric from tipoff to final buzzer.

Meanwhile, the girls showdown was just as compelling. Hollidaysburg entered the night in the middle of an outstanding season fueled by high-level guard play, sharpshooting, and dominant rebounding performances. Across the court stood a BG squad widely regarded as one of the premier small-school programs in Pennsylvania — deep, disciplined, and relentless. Every possession reflected the pride both programs carry and the high standards they’ve built.

Because neither school currently had a community member battling cancer, Sideline Cancer used the evening to unveil a powerful number — a reminder of what sports can accomplish beyond the scoreboard. Since 2022, the Hollidaysburg Area School District community has donated $32,500 to cancer patients through Sideline Cancer events spanning football, hockey, basketball, and softball.

The announcement was met with pride and gratitude, underscoring how sustained community effort creates real impact for families facing unimaginable challenges. What made this night so meaningful was the shared understanding that these games are about more than wins and losses — they represent compassion, unity, and a belief that together, communities can lift one another.

As the final whistle marked the end of Sideline Cancer’s winter season, it also highlighted a growing legacy. Every fundraiser, every packed gym, and every generous donation reflects a culture of care that continues to ripple outward.

Thank you to the players, coaches, students, families, and fans who have supported these efforts over the past four years. Your commitment proves that when communities rally together, sports become a powerful force for hope — and the impact extends far beyond the court.

If your school or community would like to host a Sideline Cancer event and make a difference for families battling cancer, reach out to Jordan Griffith at [email protected]. Together, we can continue turning athletic events into moments of compassion, generosity, and life-changing support.

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Rivalry, Community, and Compassion: Northern Bedford vs. Claysburg-Kimmel Goes Bigger Than the Game

The gym was overflowing, the rivalry was electric, and the purpose was unmistakable as Northern Bedford County School District hosted Claysburg-Kimmel School District for the 5th Annual Sideline Cancer Girls & Boys Basketball Doubleheader. What unfolded that night was far more than competition — it was a powerful example of two communities uniting to support Bill Imler and Mike Dibert as they battle cancer with an “I Can Attitude & Believe Always Spirit.”

From the moment doors opened, supporters showed up ready to give. Over 100 themed baskets filled the gym for the silent auction, while concessions, 50/50 drawings, Sideline Cancer merchandise, and online donations steadily built momentum. Every ticket purchased and every dollar donated reflected neighbors rallying around neighbors during life’s hardest moments.

Girls Game: Northern Bedford Reclaims the I Can Cup

The Northern Bedford girls came in with confidence and delivered a commanding performance. In front of a sellout crowd, they put on a clinic against their rivals, reclaiming the I Can Cup after falling short last year. The gym erupted with every basket, defensive stand, and momentum swing as the home crowd fueled the victory. It was a proud moment in the rivalry — and an emotional lift for a night centered on something greater than wins and losses.

Boys Game: Claysburg-Kimmel Extends Their Streak

The intensity carried straight into the boys matchup. Claysburg-Kimmel, riding an impressive season, met the challenge of a hostile, high-energy environment. A standout performance helped secure their third straight I Can Cup victory, showcasing teamwork, composure, and resilience in front of a roaring crowd. Every possession felt monumental, reminding everyone why this rivalry consistently delivers unforgettable moments.

A Record-Breaking Night of Generosity

As thrilling as the basketball was, the biggest victory came after the final buzzer.

When fundraising totals were revealed, the crowd erupted: $13,000 raised in a single night, with whispers that the final number could approach $15,000. The funds came from basket raffles, concessions, 50/50 drawings, Sideline Cancer merchandise, and online donations — all directed toward supporting Bill Imler and Mike Dibert.

This milestone continues a remarkable history of Sideline Cancer communities using sports as a force for compassion:

• Hollidaysburg (8/22): $4,000
• Bishop Carroll & Central Cambria (1/23): $10,000
• Northern Bedford & Claysburg (1/24): $12,000
• Bishop McCort & Forest Hills (12/24): $12,500
• Northern Bedford & Claysburg (2/26): ~$15,000

Each step forward represents communities transforming rivalry into unity for a cause that truly matters.

Love Lives On

Beyond the numbers, the emotional heartbeat of the night lingered long after the final whistle.

Sideline Cancer President Cathy Griffith shared that as she walked out of the gym, she felt something deeply spiritual — a reminder of a promise her late husband Greg once made: that love lives on. In that packed gym, it felt undeniable. The compassion, faith, and generosity in the room reflected a shared belief that those we love never truly leave us — they walk beside us through every act of kindness and courage.

That presence was especially felt through the legacy of Quinton Morrow. His courageous fight against ATRT continues to inspire hope through the work of the The Quinton Morrow Memorial Foundation, created by his family to serve others facing cancer. Throughout the evening, Quinton’s spirit was evident in the unity of both school communities and the overwhelming support directed toward local families in need. His legacy — and the love surrounding it — was already at work, helping Bill Imler and Mike Dibert through the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program.

The night became a living reminder that rivalry can pause, hearts can open, and a community can come together in a way that transcends sport. Records were broken, cups were won, but the true victory was the shared belief that compassion, remembrance, and love continue to ripple outward — always and forever.

Special thanks go to the countless volunteers, organizers, students, supporters, and community leaders — especially Mrs. Horsch — whose tireless work helped make this historic night possible.

If your school or community wants to host a Sideline Cancer event and create an impact like this, reach out to Jordan at [email protected]. Together, we can keep turning games into life-changing moments.

Believe Always. Together We Can.

Check out the highlights on Facebook here : Sideline Cancer | Northern Bedford vs Claysburg Highlights

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4th Annual Sideline Cancer Rivalry Game Unites Homer-Center & United to Support Jena Umbel and Honor Rich Hixson

Homer-Center & United High School team up to raise $2600 for local families in need during cancer diagnosis

What began four years ago as a single, emotional moment has grown into a powerful tradition rooted in love, community, and belief. The 4th Annual Sideline Cancer Game between Homer-Center and United High Schools once again proved that this rivalry is about far more than the final score.

The event originally started with a surprise check presented to beloved community member Keith Steiner, and over the years it has evolved into a yearly tradition that unites both school communities to support and honor those battling cancer. Each season, the Sideline Cancer Game serves as a reminder that when communities come together with purpose, the impact reaches far beyond the court.

This year’s game carried special meaning as it took on a new format for the first time. A boys and girls basketball doubleheader was hosted at Homer-Center, bringing even more energy, emotion, and unity into the gym. The night was dedicated to supporting Jena Umbel, who has been courageously battling leukemia for nearly a year, and honoring the life of Rich Hixson, a staple in the local sports community whose legacy continues to inspire so many.

The atmosphere inside the Homer Dome was electric, with a packed crowd and a sense that this night was truly bigger than basketball. The girls game opened the evening with an intense first half, as both teams battled possession by possession. In the second half, United pulled away behind a strong performance from Lilly McGinnis, who led all scorers with 21 points. United secured its third consecutive Sideline Cancer victory over Homer-Center, winning by more than 15 points in front of an energized crowd.

The boys game followed with just as much intensity. Homer-Center came out strong and delivered an early punch, keeping the game tight through the first half. United responded with team basketball in the second half, pushing the pace, knocking down three-pointers, and finding success in transition. The victory kept United undefeated on the season and marked their second straight Sideline Cancer win over Homer-Center, further cementing their status as a tough postseason contender.

With both wins secured, the United girls and boys teams celebrated back-to-back victories and raised the I Can Cup at center court. The celebration was filled with joy and laughter, including a memorable trophy shower for both coaches as players embraced the moment in front of a large road crowd.

Some of the most powerful moments of the night came when the focus shifted away from the scoreboard. In a tradition that began in 2023, the Homer-Center Cheerleaders once again flipped over numbers at center court, revealing $2,400 raised in honor of Rich Hixson and in support of Jena Umbel’s fight against cancer. With a few late donations added, the final total reached $2,600 donated directly to the families. It was a moment that perfectly captured the heart of Sideline Cancer and the generosity of the community.

Events like this do not happen without the dedication of so many people working behind the scenes. Sideline Cancer extends heartfelt gratitude to the teachers, coaches, administrators, athletes, cheerleaders, and fans who continue to make this event a success year after year. Their commitment ensures that the I Can Attitude and Believe Always spirit lives on through action.

Sideline Cancer events are more than fundraisers. They are moments of hope, connection, and impact that remind families facing cancer that they are not alone. If you are interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer game or community event at your school or within your organization, please email Jordan at [email protected] to learn how you can get involved. Together, we can continue to support families, honor legacies, and show that this will always be bigger than the game.

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Bigger Than Hockey: How Two Best Friends, a Purple Puck, and a Community United to Help Local Cancer Patient

Sideline Cancer Purple Puck Night 2026 | Celebrating Our Recepients

Some nights are about the scoreboard.
Some nights are about rivalries.
And then there are nights that remind us what truly matters.

Purple Puck Hockey Night is one of those nights.

Last winter, during the Hollidaysburg vs. State College hockey game, the community came together for something far greater than the game itself. Through the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, $3,350 was raised to support six-year-old Hadley Reed and her family as they faced the unimaginable. It was a powerful reminder that when students, schools, businesses, and community organizations unite, hope can rise even in the darkest moments. In the months following Purple Puck, the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program continued to spread awareness and raised a total of $10,950 for Hadley and her family in their time of need.

Because this was never just about hockey.
This was — and always will be — #BiggerThanHockey. This year on February 7th, 2026 Purple Puck Night donations will go to the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program.

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Hadley’s Fight: A Childhood Changed in an Instant

In December 2024, Hadley’s family heard words no parent is ever prepared for:

“Hadley has leukemia. You need to get to Children’s now.”

Just weeks before, Hadley was a healthy, active little girl. Suddenly, her world — and her family’s — shifted overnight. Hospital bags were packed in a rush. Christmas plans disappeared. Her parents said goodbye to their other children, not knowing how long they would be gone.

What followed were days in the PICU, chemotherapy treatments, blood and platelet transfusions, sleepless nights filled with beeping monitors, and moments of pure heartbreak — including hearing a six-year-old worry about losing her hair and being laughed at by others.

Yet through it all, Hadley showed strength far beyond her years.

She wanted to play.
She smiled when she could.
She fought — every single day.

One year later, the journey continues. Maintenance treatments, frequent hospital visits, chemo schedules, spinal taps, and the constant fear that never truly leaves. Her parents carry both overwhelming gratitude and deep grief — thankful she is still here, while mourning the childhood cancer has taken pieces of.

Hadley is a fighter.
She is strong.
And she is deeply loved.

Everleigh: When a Best Friend Knows Exactly What to Do

One of the most powerful parts of Hadley’s story isn’t just her fight — it’s her friendship.

Hadley and Everleigh met in kindergarten. They had only known each other a few months when Hadley was diagnosed, but they were inseparable almost instantly — the kind of friendship that feels like it was meant to be.

When Everleigh learned that her best friend had cancer, she didn’t hesitate.

She knew she had to help.

So she turned to the people she knew could make a difference — the “purple shirt people.” Everleigh asked her mom if she could reach out to Sideline Cancer to help Hadley.

At such a young age, Everleigh already understood something powerful:
community matters — and Sideline Cancer helps when families need it most.

Those who know Cathy and Jordan Griffith, founders of the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, know the purple shirts well. They symbolize connection, compassion, and action. They represent a mission that brings students, sports, and communities together to support families facing cancer — right when help matters most.

When Awareness Turns Into Action

The moment Everleigh’s mom reached out, Sideline Cancer sprang into action.

By sharing Hadley’s story and spreading awareness through its network of schools, students, and supporters, Sideline Cancer helped ignite a powerful ripple effect. What started with one young girl wanting to help her best friend quickly grew into a community-wide response.

Local organizations, businesses, schools, and individual community members stepped forward — donating, fundraising, and offering support in countless ways. Because Sideline Cancer amplified Hadley’s story, others were inspired to act, ensuring the Reed family felt surrounded by care, compassion, and tangible support during their hardest days.

This is the heart of the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program — not just raising funds, but connecting people, mobilizing communities, and reminding families they are never alone.

A Proven Mission With Real Impact

The Sideline Cancer movement is built on more than just good intentions — it is built on measurable, life-changing impact.

Through the Greg & Cathy Griffith Family Foundation, more than $300,000 was donated to pancreatic cancer research from 2011 through 2020, honoring Greg’s legacy and commitment to finding a cure.

In 2021, that mission expanded with the creation of the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program, designed to help families facing the financial hardships that come with a cancer diagnosis. Since then, students, schools, and communities have rallied together through Sideline Cancer events, merchandise, and donations to provide direct support when it matters most.

From 2021 through 2025, the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program has provided $250,000 to 70 cancer patients across 25 schools and universities in Central Pennsylvania and beyond — families just like the Reeds, who needed help at the exact moment life changed forever.

Purple Puck Hockey Night: The Impact You Make Possible

Thanks to the incredible support from Warrior Sports Physical Therapy, the seniors of Hollidaysburg Area School District, and so many generous community partners and individuals, Purple Puck Hockey Night raised $3,350 for Hadley and her family.

That support helped ease the financial burden that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis — covering everyday expenses that don’t stop when life is turned upside down.

This is exactly why the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program exists — to step in during the moments families need it most and to rally entire communities around them.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Join Us in Making a Difference

On February 7, 2026, Purple Puck Hockey Night returns — and this year, all proceeds will directly support the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program.

These funds will help cover the administrative and operational costs of running the program — the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything possible. From coordinating families in crisis to working with schools, students, and sponsors, these resources allow Sideline Cancer to move quickly, spread awareness, and deliver help exactly when it’s needed most.

By supporting Purple Puck 2026, you are not just funding one night — you are sustaining a program that continues to lift families like Hadley’s all year long.

We are now seeking sponsors and donors who believe in the power of awareness, community, and action. Your support ensures that when the next Everleigh reaches out — when the next family hears devastating news — Sideline Cancer is ready to respond and mobilize help immediately.

Together, we can:

• Support families facing financial hardship due to cancer
• Empower students to lead with compassion
• Connect schools, businesses, and community organizations for good
• Prove that sports can be a force for impact far beyond the scoreboard

Believe Always. Together We Can.

Hadley’s story is one of courage.
Everleigh’s story is one of compassion.
Purple Puck Hockey Night is a story of community.

And the next chapter starts with you.

If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, making a donation, or learning how you can support the 2026 Purple Puck Hockey Night, please contact:

Cathy Griffith
[email protected]

Because when we believe always —
together, we can help families like Hadley’s when they need it most.

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Check out Hadley & Everleigh’s story on WTAJ here : Bigger Than Hockey: Duo to raise money for cancer patients at hockey game

Basketball Game Raises Money for Cancer Patient: Marion Center & Purchase Line Unite to Support Missie Ruddock

Bigger than Basketball | Marion Center & Purchase Line raise funds for local cancer patient

On January 22nd, the Marion Center High School gymnasium was filled with more than just the sounds of sneakers on the floor and cheers from the stands. It was filled with heart, hope, and a shared purpose as the Marion Center Girls Basketball team hosted their first-ever Sideline Cancer game, welcoming rival Purchase Line for a night that proved to be much bigger than basketball.

For the second consecutive year, these two programs came together for a “Bigger Than Basketball” event, continuing a special tradition that began last season when Purchase Line hosted the inaugural game and helped raise $1,400 for Autumn Raffaele. This year, it was Marion Center’s turn to host, and the cause hit especially close to home.

The night was dedicated to Missie Ruddock, a member of the Marion Center community who is battling cancer with incredible strength. With Missie’s daughter on the Marion Center team and additional family ties within the program, the game carried extra meaning for the players, coaches, and community. Long before the opening tip, donations were already rolling in, and the anticipation for both the game and the impact was building.

Both teams came into the matchup having strong seasons. Marion Center entered the night on a roll, owning an impressive record with just one early-season loss, while Purchase Line arrived in the middle of a great stretch of basketball, riding a winning streak and ready for the challenge. In front of a near-capacity crowd, the game unfolded as a gritty defensive battle, with both sides fighting for every possession. When the final buzzer sounded, Marion Center earned a hard-fought 37–30 victory, improving their record and adding another chapter to this growing rivalry.

But the most meaningful moment of the night wasn’t found on the scoreboard.

Rivals during the game, Marion Center and Purchase Line stood side by side in generosity and compassion. By the time of the number reveal, the two communities had raised $3,900 for Missie. After additional late donations, that total climbed to nearly $4,200, directly supporting Missie and her family as she continues her courageous fight.

It was a powerful reminder of what happens when sports and service intersect. Two schools, one gym, and countless acts of kindness came together to show that even the fiercest competitors can unite for something greater. This is where Sideline Cancer lives—empowering communities to support those battling cancer with an I Can attitude and a Believe Always spirit.

Together, we can.

If your school or community would like to host a Sideline Cancer event and make a meaningful impact for someone in need, reach out to Jordan at [email protected]. Because when people come together with purpose, the game becomes so much more than a game. Follow along on Instagram for all the latest and to see videos from the events. @sideline.cancer

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Sideline Cancer Featured on People.com: A Legacy of Love That Lives On

Read about Sideline Cancer on People.com

We are incredibly honored and grateful to share that Sideline Cancer has been featured in an exclusive article on People Magazine Online (People.com) — a truly monumental accomplishment for our foundation and a powerful moment in sharing Greg Griffith’s story with the world.

We extend our deepest THANK YOU to People Magazine Online for publishing Greg Griffith’s incredible journey and highlighting how his legacy of love continues to live on — 15 years after his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer in February 2010 — through students, communities, and the undeniable power of sports.

This beautiful and inspiring article captures the heart of Sideline Cancer and the #ICAN spirit. It shares how Greg’s love lives on through unforgettable Godwinks, and through the strength found in faith, hope, and community. From the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program to the Sideline Cancer TBT Basketball Team, Greg’s story continues to inspire and uplift so many.

Founded in 2021, the Sideline Cancer Patient Assistance Program empowers students to make a real difference. Through fundraising efforts, merchandise sales, and donations, students rally together to support a classmate, educator, or community member facing the overwhelming financial hardships that often accompany a cancer diagnosis. At the very same time, they raise awareness by proudly wearing purple for pancreatic cancer, spreading hope far beyond the sidelines.

From the bottom of our purple hearts, Greg, Cathy, and their sons send a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has shown love, support, prayers, and belief along the way. Your incredible hearts and unwavering faith continue to remind us why we Believe Always.

We truly know and believe that one day God will cure all cancer. Until that day, we will continue to stand together — inspired by Greg’s legacy — making a difference one community, one student, and one story at a time.

We invite you to read this incredible article with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart, knowing that your love and prayers are making a difference for pancreatic cancer awareness and for all cancer patients.

Read the People.com feature here:
https://people.com/how-beloved-sports-fan-family-helps-others-after-his-pancreatic-cancer-death-11843645

To donate, become a sponsor, or hold a event in your community, please reach out to [email protected]

We Believe Always. Together, We Can. Sideline Cancer.

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Bigger Than Basketball: Bishop Carroll & Central Cambria Unite for an Unforgettable Sideline Cancer Rivalry

Less than a mile separates Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria High Schools, but when these two communities come together for Sideline Cancer, the impact reaches far beyond the court.

The 4th Annual Girls Sideline Cancer Game tipped off an unforgettable stretch of basketball where rivalry met purpose. Bishop Carroll entered the matchup undefeated at 6-0, fueled by a strong start to the season and a roster firing on all cylinders. Led by Emily Lucko’s consistent double-double performances and supported by steady guard play and sharp shooting from Ava Pablic, Madison DeLauter, Raigan M., and Sarah Miller, the Lady Huskies showcased how complete this team has become.

Central Cambria came in with a 3-2 record, carrying momentum from a magical 2024-25 season that saw them reach the PIAA Quarterfinals in 3A. With strong guard leadership from Alaina Long, lights-out shooting from Katie George, and a tough interior presence from Gianna Grimaldi, the Lady Red Devils proved once again why this rivalry is as competitive as it is passionate.

In front of a loud, electric crowd at Bishop Carroll, the girls delivered a hard-fought battle worthy of the Sideline Cancer stage. Bishop Carroll emerged with a 47-43 victory, reclaiming momentum in the I Can Cup series. Emily Lucko led all scorers with 19 points, while Ava Pablic added 15, as the home crowd celebrated not just a win—but a night dedicated to something bigger than basketball.

The following evening, the spotlight shifted to the boys for the 5th Annual Sideline Cancer Game, as Central Cambria hosted Bishop Carroll in another chapter of this intense crosstown rivalry. Once again, the gym was packed, the energy was high, and the mission was clear. This game honored Central Cambria Class of 2021 graduate Sara Miller, who is bravely battling cancer while also navigating the challenges of insurance coverage. The donation reveal at the end of the third quarter underscored why Sideline Cancer exists—to rally communities around those who need it most.

Central Cambria entered the contest at 3-2, led by standout guard B. Swope, a familiar name in Sideline Cancer games who has delivered big moments year after year. Bishop Carroll countered with a team riding a two-game winning streak, anchored by Jace Casses, who had already made a name for himself as one of the area’s most dynamic scorers.

What followed was a performance for the history books.

Trailing by 13 points in the first half, Bishop Carroll stormed back behind an unbelievable effort from Jace Casses, who poured in a Sideline Cancer record 47 points—even while facing double teams for much of the night. His scoring outburst propelled Bishop Carroll to a 74-65 victory, snapping a two-game losing streak against their rivals and giving BC a 3-2 lead in the I Can Cup series.

Jace’s 47 points broke the previous Sideline Cancer scoring record of 36, set last season by Somerset’s Eve Housley against Penn Cambria. In a twist that feels almost too perfect for a Sideline Cancer story, Eve and Jace are boyfriend and girlfriend—adding yet another layer of connection to a night filled with special moments.

While the wins, records, and rivalries made headlines, the true victory belonged to the communities of Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria. Two nights. Four teams. Packed gyms. And one shared purpose—to support those battling cancer and remind them they are not alone.

That is the heart of Sideline Cancer. The final total raised and donated to Sara Miller wa $9,100!

If you are a school, coach, or community member interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer event and making a real impact through the power of sports, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Jordan at [email protected] to learn how you can get involved.

Believe Always

More Than a Game: Sideline Cancer Opens Basketball Season with Altoona vs. State College

The start of a new basketball season always brings excitement, but for Sideline Cancer, it also brings purpose, hope, and community—and this year’s first Sideline Cancer basketball game of the season delivered all of that and more.

The season tipped off in a big way as State College High School hosted the Altoona Lady Lions, marking the first Sideline Cancer basketball event of the year. From the moment the doors opened, it was clear this night was about more than just basketball. With purple filling the gym and Sideline Cancer graphics proudly displayed, the energy in the building reflected the heart of what these events represent—students, athletes, families, and communities coming together to support those battling cancer.

Coming into the matchup, both teams had high expectations. State College entered the night at 1–1, with both games decided by a single possession, relying on quick guard play and transition offense. Altoona arrived with a 1–2 record, highlighted by an impressive season-opening win over Hollidaysburg in front of a packed home crowd, followed by tough matchups against Upper Dublin and Spring-Ford. With both programs eyeing Mid-Penn League success, a District VI title, and a potential PIAA playoff run, the stage was set for one of the best games of the Sideline Cancer season.

And the Altoona Lady Lions did not disappoint.

Altoona went on the road and earned a commanding 67–42 victory, securing their second consecutive Sideline Cancer win at State College. The night was a true team effort from start to finish. Raylin Eyer led all scorers with 14 points, knocking down two three-pointers and setting the tone offensively. Senior point guard Zaelin Hkai put on a show, dazzling the crowd with her vision and leadership, finishing the night with 13 points and 8 assists. Kendall Cogan added a strong double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds, while Brionna Hudson, returning from injury, made an immediate impact with 12 points in her first game back. It was, without question, a complete team win.

While the action on the court was electric, the true victory of the night was what happened beyond the scoreboard. Once again, Sideline Cancer demonstrated the powerful role high school athletics can play in making a difference. By combining competitive basketball with a meaningful cause, this event reminded everyone in attendance that sports can be a platform for hope, generosity, and support for families facing cancer.

We are incredibly grateful to both State College and Altoona for their continued participation and commitment to the Sideline Cancer mission. Their willingness to use their platform to help others is what makes these events so special—and why they continue to grow each season.

This game was just the beginning. With many more Sideline Cancer events planned throughout the basketball season, the momentum is already building, and the impact will continue to reach far beyond the gym.

If your school, team, or community is interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer event and being part of something bigger than the game, we would love to connect with you. To learn more or to host an event, please contact Jordan at [email protected].

Together, through sports and community, we continue to Believe Always .