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IRVINE, Calif. (January 29, 2024) — The Big West has joined forces with the Kay Yow Cancer Fund and Big West Analyst Tammy Blackburn for Tough Like Tammy, an initiative designed to raise funds to support further research on all cancers affecting women.
Between February 1 and March 9, 2024, Big West fans are encouraged to join metastatic breast cancer thriver Tammy Blackburn by making a one-time donation or pledge for every offensive rebound secured during Big West women’s basketball games in that period. All gifts will benefit the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.
“Tammy Blackburn is a great friend and one of the toughest and most courageous people I have ever met,” remarked Big West Commissioner Dan Butterly. “Her courage and grace throughout her cancer journey have been an inspiration to many, and The Best West and our basketball programs are honored to be able to team up with Tammy, our fans and the Kay Yow Cancer Fund in support of a cause that can literally save lives. I encourage our fans to be Tough Like Tammy and support this conference-wide initiative.”
“I’m honored to collaborate with the Kay Yow Cancer Fund in raising funds for cancer research,” Blackburn noted. “This initiative propels medical advancements, providing hope to those facing life-threatening illnesses. My gratitude to The Big West and all contributors in this transformative program—your involvement turns despair into possibility."
A check for all monies raised will be presented during the women’s championship game of the 2024 Hercules Tires Big West Women’s Basketball Championship on March 16 at The Dollar Loan Center in Henderson, Nevada.
“We are so excited about The Big West coming together to Play4Kay in honor of Tammy Blackburn,” said Kay Yow Cancer Fund CEO Jenny Palmateer. “The vision of Play4Kay came directly from Coach Kay Yow. She saw it as a way to provide strength and courage to women battling cancer as well as a way to unite coaches, players, officials, fans across the country in the fight against all cancers affecting women. The Big West is bringing this vision to life.”
It is estimated Big West women’s teams will grab approximately 1,200 total offensive rebounds during the six weeks of the Tough Like Tammy campaign. Fans can find more detail on Tough Like Tammy and donate at
BigWest.org/TLT.