Coaches vs. Cancer event coming up on December 20
There are a few things outside of basketball that University of Hawai’i head coach Eran Ganot is eager to talk about in the middle of the season.
The Coaches vs. Cancer fundraising event is near the top of his list.
“I always talk about how it’s an honor to be a part of a team, and this is the ultimate team,” Ganot said. “To raise money, to raise awareness about a dreadful disease, there’s been a lot of inroads made. We have to continue to fight the fight.”
This year’s fundraiser is set for December 20, at 7:00 p.m., at the Reef Bar & Market Grill at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort (2169 Kalia Road). The event is open to the public, and tickets are still available at $125 per person. All proceeds will support the American Cancer Society’s Coaches vs. Cancer program and the Honolulu Hope Lodge.
Ganot and the other seven coaches participating in the 2018 Hawaiian Airlines Diamond Head Classic will be in attendance to meet and greet the attendees.
The coaches in this year’s Diamond Head Classic are Ganot, Tad Boyle (Colorado), David Cox (Rhode Island), Nathan Davis (Bucknell), Jamie Dixon (TCU), Greg Lansing (Indiana State), Marvin Menzies (UNLV) and Ron Sanchez (Charlotte).
“Great time, great food, just hanging out and having a good time,” Ganot said. “And raising money and awareness for a great cause.”
ESPN announcers LaPhonso Ellis (former Notre Dame and NBA player) and Cory Alexander (former Virginia and NBA player) are also expected to attend.
CLICK HERE to purchase tickets
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Tip-Off Event raises $150,000 for program
The Third Annual Men’s Basketball Tip-Off Event in October drew close to 500 fans at the Stan Sheriff Center, and raised $150,000 for the program.
“To be where we’re at after three years is exceptional,” Ganot said. “You’re talking about year one raising 50 grand, year two raising 100 (thousand) and year three raising 150 (thousand). I think it’s a top five one of the best events in the country and something that will continue to elevate our program.”
The event includes live and silent auctions, food and drinks, and a chance to meet the coaches and players.
Ganot said the money raised will be used toward pre- and post-game meals for the team, summer school tuition coverage for the players, and recruiting trips for the coaches.
