This season, the SMU Men's Basketball team has become known for its fight on the floor. The tough-minded Mustangs are top 10 in the nation in a host of defensive categories.
"We've been learning how to win on the go," says SMU Head Coach Rob Lanier. "As a coach, it's a gratifying experience when you have the opportunity to lead young individuals, witness their genuine unity towards a common goal; we're currently in that process."
But the fight against the rest of the American Athletic Conference is not the only fight Lanier is spearheading.
On Saturday, his team will host the Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Moody Coliseum for the annual "Suits and Sneakers Game," part of the Coaches Versus Cancer initiative.
"Cancer touches everyone," Lanier said. "You either have personal experience with it or know someone who has. In September 1987, I lost my father to cancer."
The Coaches vs. Cancer initiative, established in 1993, holds immense importance, especially during these challenging times. Lanier underscored its significance, saying, "It's a cause of vast reach. The inception of the Coaches Versus Cancer movement dates back to 1993, and one of the prominent figures in this movement was Jimmy Saddleman, a former head basketball coach at my alma mater (St. Bonaventure)."
One of the biggest current outreaches for Coaches Versus Cancer is to "Set the Screen."
"Encouraging early detection is one of the most effective ways to participate," Lanier said. "Promoting not only safety and health but also urging your loved ones to do the same."
Early detection guidelines change frequently, so take a look at this link, and see if it's time to get screened. It might just save your life.
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