Coaches vs. Cancer

Two Albany High basketball players pose outside the gym,

Seniors Isaiah Austin (left) and Delon Dean (right) are excited to play basketball for a cause this weekend.

Delon Dean always gives 110% whenever he’s on the court. But this weekend he’ll give even more.

“We have to set an example,” said the senior forward.

The Falcons are participating in the annual Coaches vs. Cancer bracket buster. The basketball tournament raises money to help battle the deadly disease – a disease that took both of Dean’s grandmothers and a young cousin.

“It will give me a sense of pride to play. We have to be as positive as we can.”

For more than 25 years, the Coaches vs. Cancer program, in collaboration with the National Association of Basketball coaches, has supported the American Cancer Society across the country and worldwide.

“It gives us a centered focus on an issue and unites players in all of Section 2,” explained Albany High School’s varsity basketball coach, Sean Brown.

The Falcons’ first game begins at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 18 at Hudson Valley Community College’s McDonough Complex. Admission is $8 and the team faces Schenectady High School.

“We want to show up for people because we know this means a lot,” said Falcon guard, and senior, Isaiah Austin.

For more information, or to donate, follow this link.