This Saturday’s win against Cal State Bakersfield was more than just about a win or a game. It had such a bigger meaning, and bigger impact on more than just a basketball court. The Buffs participated in UCHealths “Bigger Than Basketball” program. The men did not wear their own names on the back of their jerseys, but instead, the names of people fighting cancer. It is a huge honor and an amazing gift to give to these warriors of life.
Here was a the full roster in names of these fighters:
The full roster: pic.twitter.com/67V2OlApjW
— Colorado Men's Basketball (@CUBuffsMBB) December 16, 2021
The Buffs even got to take part of zoom calls with some of these cancer survivors who were being honored. It’s a great life lesson for everyone inside and outside of sports. It makes you realize how small Basketball can be and how truly fragile and precious life is. Especially right before Christmas, in teaching that we should all be grateful and appreciative with life because there are people out there fighting so hard just to have one.
https://twitter.com/cubuffsmbb/status/1472293701170782216?s=21
Nique Cliffords mom took the time to share this on twitter.
A very special tribute tonight for true heroes. Cancer affects so many of our lives. I'm glad Nique was able to play for this cause. Mr. Howrey it was our privilege to meet you and we wish you and your family the best in your continued fight.💜💛🖤#BiggerThanBasketball @NiqueOtn pic.twitter.com/TMazF0x2vQ
— Angel Clifford (@AngeliqueClif12) December 19, 2021
The Buffs won the game against CSU Bakersfield 60-46, and improving to 9-3. I know the men made their warriors watching proud this weekend. They represented these heroes well and hopefully put a much needed smile on their face.
https://twitter.com/cubuffsmbb/status/1472361383903870978?s=21
The womens team however did not get the chance to take part in this. Hopefully in the future they can. It’s a humbling experience that Colorado Basketball should all take part in together.
Our former Director of Basketball Operations chimed in to this very subject:
This is so awesome! Would love to see the Women’s team have the opportunity to support these warriors as well! https://t.co/Tw8zsIXnlq
— Jill Mahoney (@coachmahoney22) December 17, 2021
Fingers crossed for next year, because we know there are little girls out there who are fighting and dreaming big, to one day play on some of the biggest stages of basketball. Just like the fabulous women on the team.
Most of us have someone we know, or known battling cancer. It effects us all one way or another. This is just an beautiful organization and an amazing thing to highlight. We hope this is done every year, as this is outstanding to show the heart of the players, the coaches, and the school. The NCAA should ban together and do this much more often with many more schools. An alluring tribute.