LAWRENCE, Kan. (WIBW) – The 16th annual Rock Chalk Roundball Classic was another triumph, with former Jayhawks returning to Lawrence to support local families battling pediatric cancer.
A total of 37 former KU men’s and women’s basketball and football players participated, forming the Crimson and Blue rosters.
Nearly the entire 2022 National Championship team attended, with Gradey Dick and Greg Ostertag as head coaches. Notable players included Wayne Simien, Aqib Talib, Devonte Graham, Sherron Collins, Tyshawn Taylor, and Brandon Rush.
“There’s nothing like it,” said Sherron Collins. “That’s why we come back, even those playing professionally now. They take breaks from their training to return, and we should all come back and help out. It’s the least we can do.”
While the court action was entertaining, the focus was on creating a memorable experience for the ‘Magnificent Seven’—seven local children and their families fighting pediatric cancer who were this year’s beneficiaries. They received a warm welcome on the court, high-fiving the Jayhawks amid a cheering crowd.
“Especially when the kids get announced, that’s the best part every year,” said Brian Hanni, Voice of the Jayhawks and Rock Chalk Roundball Classic Director. “We form a player tunnel of 40 players, and then these seven magnificent kids come through to a crowd roar, with smiles all around and few dry eyes. It’s a pretty special moment.”
The Crimson team won the game 116-101. WIBW will air the full game on Saturday, June 22nd at 10:35 p.m.
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