KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Suits And Sneakers Week, the signature initiative of the American Cancer Society and NABC’s Coaches vs. Cancer program, officially tips off today and runs through January 29. The nationwide campaign will unite coaches across all levels of basketball to raise funds and awareness about the fight against cancer and promote the American Cancer Society as a source of inspiration and hope for those facing cancer.

This week, coaches will return to wearing suits on the sidelines and lace up sneakers as a visible reminder of their support of the American Cancer Society. Coaches will also share messages about who they #SuitUp for to honor or remember individuals who have battled cancer.

“The NABC has proudly collaborated with the American Cancer Society on the Coaches vs. Cancer program for nearly three decades, and the results continue to be truly life-saving,” said NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson. “Suits And Sneakers Week brings our game together in support of a common cause, and is a testament to coaches’ passion for using their influential platforms for good. Our goal this week is to bring much-needed attention to the importance of early detection, and to remind those facing cancer that they are never alone in the fight.”

Funds raised during Suits And Sneakers Week will support the American Cancer Society’s screening initiatives that encourages people to schedule regular cancer screening tests. Basketball programs participating in Suits And Sneakers Week will also deliver important messaging about the life-saving significance of regular cancer screening.

Screening for cancer decreased by as much as 90 percent during the worst periods of the COVID-19 pandemic, and remains down by as much as 25 percent from historical averages.

“With one in two men and one in three women facing a cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, regular cancer screening remains an essential part of ending cancer as we know it. Early detection of cancer affords the best opportunity to effectively treat and, when possible, eradicate cancer,” said Dr. Karen E. Knudsen, chief executive officer at the American Cancer Society. “ACS is grateful for its partnership with the NABC and college basketball coaches across the country in encouraging all individuals to be advocates for their own health through following cancer screening guidelines. Together, let’s set the screen!”

Coaches vs. Cancer is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the NABC. The program, started by longtime Missouri men’s basketball coach Norm Stewart, empowers basketball and other athletic coaches to save lives from cancer by leveraging their community leadership to raise awareness and funds for the American Cancer Society. Since the program’s inception in 1993, coaches have raised over $145 million for the American Cancer Society.

COURTESY NABC COMMUNICATIONS & DAYTON MEDIA RELATIONS