Bigger Than Basketball: How Purchase Line and Marion Center Came Together for a Cause

On Friday, December 20th, the gymnasium at Purchase Line High School buzzed with excitement and energy. The Purchase Line and Marion Center basketball teams weren’t just battling for victory on the court—they were uniting for something much greater: the first-ever “Bigger Than Basketball Rivalry Game.”

This special event was dedicated to supporting Autumn Raffaele, a nursing student at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (@iupnursing) who has been courageously navigating life’s challenges. The teams and their communities joined forces to raise $1,400 for Autumn, demonstrating the true meaning of teamwork and community spirit.

As the game tipped off, the crowd roared with support, not only for their teams but for the shared purpose of helping someone in need. Led by standout @macie.alex05, Marion Center took home the win and the coveted *I Can Cup,* but the real victory lay beyond the scoreboard. Both teams left the court with their heads held high, knowing they had been part of something bigger than themselves.

It was a night of inspiration, determination, and compassion. The players, coaches, and administrations of both schools showed us all what can happen when sports become a platform for kindness and change.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to everyone involved in making this event a success. From the dedicated coaches to the school administrations, from the players on the court to the fans in the stands—this night was a testament to what a community can achieve when it comes together for a shared cause.

The *Bigger Than Basketball Rivalry Game* is just one example of how high school sports can make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most. If your school or community is interested in hosting an event like this, Sideline Cancer is here to help!

Contact Jordan Griffith at [email protected] to learn how you can organize a game that’s *bigger than basketball* and bring hope to those in need.

Together, we can continue to show the world that sports have the power to transform lives.