Coaches vs. Cancer
Coaches vs. Cancer is a collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC). Since 1993, this initiative has engaged coaches nationwide to leverage their leadership and influence to support the American Cancer’s Society’s vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone.
In over 30 years, coaches have raised over $179 million for the American Cancer Society.
Coaches’ Corner
Get everything you need to rally your program around Coaches vs. Cancer. From signage to social content and apparel, this page makes it easy to support the American Cancer Society all season long.
Suits And Sneakers Week: January 26 – February 1, 2026
Suits And Sneakers Week is a favorite every season, and this year we’re making it easier than ever to support Coaches vs. Cancer and the American Cancer Society.
Get Screened. Save Lives. Join Coaches vs. Cancer.
Embracing cancer screening is an essential act of self-care. Regular screenings can lead to early detection, significantly improving treatment outcomes and enhancing your quality of life.
It’s simple. Get screened. If you have family history or not, get screened. And urge your loved ones to do the same.
Find a screening location near you
Many people face barriers to getting the care they need, but cancer doesn’t wait. So make a breakaway and find a screening location near you.
Become a Coaches vs. Cancer National Partner
Sponsoring the American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer program presents organizations with a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in the fight against cancer while aligning with one of the most respected initiatives in athletics. By supporting Coaches vs. Cancer, your organization will help fund vital cancer research, provide essential patient support services, promote prevention education, and advocate for cancer issues. Additionally, your organization will gain visibility among dedicated sports fans, alumni networks, and college communities.
The NABC is proud of our 30-plus years of impacting the fight against cancer alongside the American Cancer Society. The Coaches vs. Cancer program is a one-of-a-kind collaboration that unites coaches and the college basketball community behind this worthy cause. Coaches have influential platforms, and there’s no better way to use those platforms than advancing the vision to end cancer as we know, it for everyone. Join us today.
As a brand deeply committed to making a difference, we recognize that cancer touches the lives of everyone in some way. Partnering with the American Cancer Society aligns perfectly with our core mission of creating impactful change. This collaboration allows us to contribute meaningfully to the fight against cancer and inspire hope for a healthier future.
Our National Partners
We’re pleased to partner on a national level with the following corporations who are helping to make a difference in the fight against cancer.
Plan or Attend a Fundraiser
Participating in a Coaches vs. Cancer event provides a valuable opportunity to make a significant impact in the battle against cancer. These events unite coaches, athletes, and supporters to raise funds for cancer research, patient services, and prevention programs. By participating, you contribute to saving lives while honoring those affected by cancer, harnessing the competitive spirit of sports for meaningful collective action.
If you do not see an event in your area but want to find a way to get involved with the Coaches vs. Cancer program, please email coachesvscancer@cancer.org.
Join Coaches vs. Cancer
Get Involved as a Coach, Athlete, or Parent
Coaches vs. Cancer gives coaches the opportunity to lead beyond the game by uniting their team and community around a cause that touches so many lives. By getting involved, you help create meaningful moments for your players, strengthen community spirit, and support the American Cancer Society’s work in research, early detection, and patient care. Your leadership on and off the court can inspire others to take action in the fight against cancer.
Norm Stewart, former head coach of the University of Missouri’s men’s basketball program, cancer survivor, and member of the NABC, provided the vision and inspiration for the Coaches vs. Cancer concept.
He started the program by challenging fans to pledge a dollar amount for every three-point shot made by his team during the season. The concept evolved into a nationwide effort uniting coaches, fans, players, and communities across the country to fight cancer.
To learn more about Coaches vs. Cancer program, read our Coaches vs Cancer Stewardship Report
The American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer Council is comprised of college basketball coaches and officials who play an integral role in determining the direction and impact of the Coaches vs. Cancer program. The Council focuses on four major areas of impact for the American Cancer Society: Mission, Engagement, Revenue, and Advocacy.
The 2026 dates for Suits And Sneakers Week are January 26- February 1, 2026.
Coaches vs. Cancer Suits And Sneakers Week is a nationwide event when basketball coaches across the country unite for a common cause - ending cancer as we know it, for everyone. This year, we are making it easier than ever for coaches and their teams to support Coaches vs. Cancer and the American Cancer Society. Check out the Coaches vs. Cancer Playbook to learn more about how you can implement a Coaches vs. Cancer game during Suits And Sneakers Week, or anytime during the season that works best for your school!
Questions? Contact coachesvscancer@cancer.org to connect with an ACS staff partner who can assist you.
Started by Lon Kruger in 2008, the Las Vegas Golf Classic has become a marquee event for Coaches vs. Cancer, combining a star-studded roster of coaches on the golf course with an ever-increasing impact on raising money in the fight against cancer. With recent support from Sanford Health and other key corporate partners including MGM and Nike, the Las Vegas Golf Classic has raised more than $12 million to date.
For more information on the Classic, visit The Coaches vs Cancer Las Vegas Golf Classic or contact Virginia Keller.
Join NCAA coaches and prominent sports media figures each June for a two-day golf outing and help the American Cancer Society save lives from cancer.
The 2026 event will take place at Baltusrol Golf Club on May 31 – June 1. For more information please visit the Coaches vs. Cancer National Golf Classic event page or contact Virginia Keller.
Mingle and rub elbows with your favorite basketball coaches and sports personalities across the country or in your local community. For more information, check out our Calendar of Events or email coachesvscancer@cancer.org.
The American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches invite youth programs to join Coaches vs. Cancer and help make a difference in the fight against cancer.
Across the country, youth teams, clubs, and school programs come together each season to raise awareness, inspire their communities, and support the American Cancer Society’s mission. When young athletes get involved, they learn how teamwork, leadership, and service can create real impact for people facing cancer.
As a coach or program leader, you can help your team turn their passion for the game into support for lifesaving research, early detection, and patient programs like free rides and free lodging during treatment.
Your team can make a difference. Join us and help your school or league support families in your community and beyond.
For more information, please email us at ACSsports@cancer.org.
For over 30 years, the Coaches vs. Cancer program has united coaches and fans nationwide to help the American Cancer Society defeat a common opponent - cancer. The program extends beyond the coaches themselves to includes spouses, friends, and family. There are several impactful ways to get involved in your own community and nationwide. For more information, please contact coachesvscancer@cancer.org.
