Roundball Classic offers rewarding opportunity for Kansas basketball fans
By Dillon Davis
Although KU sporting events are few and far between this time of year, there is one that should be on the radar of every Jayhawk fan this week.
The Rock Chalk Roundball Classic, an annual charity event established in 2009 by “Voice of the Jayhawks” Brian Hanni, kicks off at 7 p.m. CT Thursday at Lawrence Free State High School.
Thursday’s event features a scrimmage of former Kansas men’s and women’s basketball players. It’s a star-studded group including Frank Mason, Devonte’ Graham, members of the 2008 national championship team, and many others.
It’s also the first time since 2019 the event will be held at full capacity, and players will be available (if they choose) to sign autographs following the game.
But the real stars of the show are the five local children battling pediatric cancer – recognized as the “Starting Five.” The proceeds from the Roundball Classic are donated to these children and their families to help with ongoing medical costs.
This year’s Starting Five features: 1-year-old John Foster of Edgerton; 2-year-old DK Clark of Topeka; 8-year-old George Langston of Olathe; 10-year-old Fatima Gomez of Olathe; and 13-year-old Jake Jones of Roeland Park.
Since its inception, the Roundball Classic has raised over $770,000 for more than 40 local families in need – demonstrating the true generosity of the Jayhawk faithful.
But the Roundball Classic isn’t the only event fans can attend this week to support the Starting Five.
Fans can purchase tickets to the VIP gala dinner being held this Friday at the recently renovated Burge Union on KU’s campus. Tickets to the dinner include a meal, drinks, access to auction items, photo opportunities with former players, and more.
Fans can also purchase tickets for the Rock Chalk Roundbowl taking place at Royal Crest Lanes in Lawrence this Saturday. At this event, fans will be paired up with former players as they bowl against one another and help raise funds for the families.
Information on how to purchase tickets for all three events can be found here. For those who want to contribute but don’t live locally or can’t attend the events, donations can also be made through the Roundball Classic website.
These events offer a great opportunity for fans to see and interact with some of the most beloved Kansas basketball players of all time and perhaps win some prized KU memorabilia, all while giving back to a great cause. It really is a win-win if you’re a Kansas fan.
And by attending these events or donating online, Kansas fans can provide a much-needed win for these children and families in need.