Pink Out: Thousands Stand Up to Cancer During Creighton Game

Creighton’s Pink Out game against Butler on Friday night was a win-win. 

Not only did the Bluejays beat Butler 75-61 at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, but 18,089 fans – many dressed in pink – came together to take a stand against cancer.

The annual Coaches vs. Cancer Pink Out game, co-sponsored by Methodist Health System and CHI Health, is a powerful event that promotes awareness of all cancers. This year’s Pink Out auction and activities raised $19,595 for Hope Lodge Nebraska, which provides a free home away from home for cancer patients and caregivers who travel to Omaha for treatment. Since the 2011-12 season, the event has raised over $205,000.

Friday’s game included an emotional moment when thousands of fans stood in support of loved ones as Rachel Platten’s “Fight Song” played throughout the arena.

The Pink Out game “continues to amaze me,” said Creighton coach Greg McDermott, whose wife, Theresa, is a breast cancer survivor.

He added: “I say it every year, but I get goose bumps every time I come through that tunnel and I see all the pink.”

Fans have another chance to stand up to cancer on Sunday, Feb. 10, when the Creighton women’s basketball team has its own Pink Out game against Seton Hall.

About the Author

Patrick Smith, internal communications manager for Methodist Health System, has over a decade of experience writing and editing for newspapers and other publications. He enjoys meeting new people and telling stories that highlight Methodist's mission to deliver The Meaning of Care.

See more articles from Patrick Smith
Photo of Patrick Smith