Lady Raiders 'Think Pink' for breast cancer

The Lady Raiders participated in Think Pink to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer while basking in their victory over Western Kentucky University.

The game took place on Feb. 17 at 2 p.m. with the Lady Raiders displaying pink uniforms as a closing to the Think Pink week of 2008, which began on Feb. 8.

The pink uniforms were donated by Tommy and Dean Hodges and were auctioned off after the game to raise money for breast cancer research.

The Women's Basketball Coaches Association established the concept for Think Pink in 2007 to focus on the awareness of breast cancer in athletics and communities.

"We are just glad to be able to do our part [to raise awareness]," said Head Coach Rick Insell. "We are only one of 600 schools that are participating this year in order to raise funds."

In 2007, only 120 schools participated in the "Think Pink" campaign; however, as of now over 600 basketball teams have come together for the cause.

In attendance, fans wore pink to honor breast cancer survivors and support the WBCA and Kay Yow Cancer Fund. Actual members of the audience were recognized during halftime, along with a special video clip displayed on the scoreboard screens, presenting three breast cancer survivors.

"I am so pleased with the crowd and the excitement they brought to support our women's team and raise awareness for breast cancer," said President Sidney McPhee.

In addition to support, freshman guard Anne Marie Lanning and sophomore forward Brandi Brown both have family members that were diagnosed with breast cancer.

"I think it's good because it's helping a good cause and I feel like we're supporting something special," Lanning said.

After the game, each player's jersey was auctioned off with the proceeds going to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, as well as the Middle Tennessee Medical Center.

"Everyone has just been more involved, and by coming out to see the game and the auction of the jerseys, everyone will be more aware that it can happen to them," Brown said.

Overall, Think Pink was a success with an attendance of 6,968 fans and an incredible $5,000 raised for sophomore guard Chelsia Lymon's pink jersey, which was ultimately the highest amount.

"I would love to see this as an annual tradition to continue to raise awareness for any kind of cancer including breast cancer," McPhee said.