Jan. 22, 2008

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Help Purdue Athletics "Think Pink" this Sunday when the Purdue women's basketball team takes on Illinois on Jan. 27 at 2 p.m. in Mackey Arena.

Purdue is one of over 600 schools participating in the "Think Pink" initiative sponsored by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association in an effort to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research. Schools can participate in a variety of ways and Purdue has chosen Hoops for Hope as the title of Sunday's event, which will include a health information fair before the game, donation opportunities and a special halftime ceremony to honor cancer survivors. Fans are encouraged to show their support by wearing pink and the team will be wearing pink uniforms.

"Cancer has touched almost everyone's life; if not directly, then because someone close to you has battled the disease," head coach Sharon Versyp said. "Those of us that are involved in sports have been given so much, so it is important that we give back when we have a chance. We are very pleased to have an opportunity to do our part to help raise funds and to increase breast cancer education and awareness."

The WBCA's "Think Pink" initiative is a global, unified effort for the WBCA's nation of coaches to assist in raising breast cancer awareness on the court, across campuses, in communities and beyond. The week set aside for this year's initiative is February 8 to 17, however many schools, including Purdue, are participating outside of that window due to scheduling conflicts.

"The WBCA is very excited to promote an initiative that touches all levels of our membership and unifies them for such a great cause," WBCA CEO Beth Bass said. "It has been remarkable to watch the support of this initiative grow from 120 schools last year to over 600 schools for 2008. With the help of each of our members, the women's basketball community can make a difference in the fight against breast cancer."

All fans are encouraged to wear pink. Tickets for the game are still available at the Purdue Athletics Ticket Office or by calling 800-49-SPORT. For more information on the WBCA's "Think Pink" event click here.

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