Sideline Cancer ICAN Classic 2024
The Sideline Cancer organization hosted a groundbreaking event at the Nittany Valley Sports Centre in State College, Pennsylvania: the inaugural Girls ICAN Classic. Taking place on April 27th and 28th, this tournament was not only a first-of-its-kind AAU NIL competition but also a powerful platform to raise awareness and advocacy for pancreatic cancer. With the tagline “Believe Always Together We Can Sideline Cancer,” the event brought together athletes, teams, and supporters in a dynamic celebration of sport and philanthropy.
The ICAN Classic stood out for its innovative approach to youth basketball tournaments. Announced on the Haigh-Homan Halftime Show by Sideline Cancer’s Executive Director Jordan Griffith, the event promised a $10,000 prize and featured groundbreaking elements like “Player Rankings” and the “Elam Ending,” distinguishing it from any other AAU tournament in the country. Every detail of the competition was designed to shine a spotlight on the talent and determination of these young female athletes. As Jordan expressed during the announcement, this tournament aimed to promote these players in ways never seen before while supporting a cause that resonates deeply with the community.
The competition was fierce, with teams like The HUrban Legends from New Jersey and SLAAM 16U of Pittsburgh battling for the championship title. On the final day, the energy in the gym was electric as the players left everything on the court. Ultimately, the HUrban Legends emerged as the champions, taking home the first-ever ICAN Classic trophy. The excitement and camaraderie among the teams, coaches, and volunteers underscored the event’s success as both a sporting milestone and a charitable triumph.
Throughout the weekend, the spirit of “Believe Always” was palpable. The tournament wasn’t just about basketball; it was a heartfelt effort to sideline pancreatic cancer. All proceeds from the event went toward Sideline Cancer’s mission to raise awareness and fund advocacy for this devastating disease. With a five-year survival rate of just 13% and approximately 66,000 people expected to be diagnosed in 2024, the urgency of the cause was front and center. Events like the ICAN Classic amplify the foundation’s commitment to turning hope into action.
Special recognition goes to Teresa Haigh and Leah Homan for their incredible podcast coverage, which brought the event’s energy and purpose to life. Their dedication to highlighting the importance of this tournament set the stage for future conversations about how sports can serve as a powerful platform for social good. Additionally, a big thank-you to LeAnn Stefan Photography for capturing the vibrant moments of the weekend, ensuring these memories will inspire others for years to come.
As the ICAN Classic concluded, it became clear that this was more than just a basketball tournament—it was a movement. The success of the event marked the beginning of a new chapter for Sideline Cancer, one where sports, advocacy, and community intersect to create lasting change. With the support of amazing volunteers, athletes, and sponsors, the foundation proved once again that together, we can sideline cancer. Believe always.
