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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