Western State College of Colorado

GUNNISON, Colo. – In conjunction with the upcoming “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” event next Tuesday, the Western State women’s basketball teams will sport new pink jerseys during the upcoming home game against Mesa State Feb. 9.

“We are proud to join the WBCA and coaches across the country to show our support for all coaches who are battling cancer,” said Western State Head Women’s Basketball Coach Latricia Trammell. “The next three home games our Western State College women’s basketball team will step on the floor and wear pink uniforms in recognition of these coaches who are battling cancer and individuals across the country that are battling this terrible disease and for the people that we have lost.”

Kay Yow, the longtime head coach at NC State who amassed more than 700 career wins, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1987 before passing away Jan. 24, 2009. The WBCA named its cancer fund after Yow, and more than 100 Pink Zone games will be broadcasted via television or internet stream.

Tuesday's game will carry even more significance for Trammell, whose brother is recovering from a cancer diagnosis last summer.

“I am proud to have my brother Donny Trammell sitting on the bench with our team this weekend,” Trammell said. “This past July, Donny was diagnosed with mesothelioma.  Donny was fortunate to work with the best and after his 15-hour surgery and countless chemo treatments he is on the road to recovery. Cancer is a terrible disease but it can be beaten, lives can be saved through early detection and prevention."

All cancer survivors and those who have been affected are encouraged to attend Tuesday's basketball games for special recognition.

“I have a wonderful group of young women that make up our women’s basketball team and I am proud that they wanted to participate in such an important cause,” Trammell said. “This is something they will always remember and I am blessed to share that with them.”