RINDGE, N.H. (February 16, 2017) – Making 3-point shots this basketball season takes on even more meaning this year for the Franklin Pierce University basketball teams. The Ravens will square off against teams across the nation to fight cancer as part of the American Cancer Society's Coaches vs. Cancer 3-Point Challenge.

The Raven women are currently ranked 26th in the nation based on amount raised ($799.00) in the 3-Point Challenge while the Raven men check in at 41st ($520.00). Fans are encouraged to help the Ravens become the 3-Point Challenge Champion by pledging today by clicking here for the women's page and here for the men's page.

To view how the Ravens stacks up against teams across the country here.

More than 200 college basketball teams nationwide are using their spotlight on the court to raise money and awareness against cancer by taking part in the program. The 3-Point Challenge program runs through February and supports American Cancer Society research, education and patient programs.

"Our commitment to participate in the Coaches vs. Cancer 3 Point Shootout is a must said women's head coach Jeanette Wedo. Everyone is connected in some way to this horrible disease. We are determined to do anything we can to go the extra mile to raise funds and awareness for this urgent cause."

Men's basketball senior forward Ben Mead (Ipswich, Suffolk, (England)) stated "Coaches vs. Cancer is a fantastic way to raise both awareness and funds for a brilliant cause. We are fortunate enough to play the sport we love everyday of our lives, whilst for others, it's a fight everyday just to live says Mead. Pledging for every three we make is just another way we can give back some of the same kind of support we are receive daily. Every donation, big or small, goes towards helping Franklin Pierce Men's Basketball fight cancer!"

"Cancer is something that has touched so many people, some more directly than others says women's basketball junior guard Jemma Thacker (Nairne, South Australia). For me it's very personal, as it is for many people in the sport of basketball and on our Franklin Pierce campus. My teammates, coaches, and I are glad to be participating in Coaches vs. Cancer to raise money and awareness while doing what we love."

Raven fans making a Gold or Diamond tier pledge will receive an exclusive Coaches vs. Cancer t-shirt.

"Sports fans are passionate, and through initiatives like this one, we are channeling that passion into fun, yet meaningful, ways to help save lives from cancer," said Sharon Byers, chief development and marketing officer, American Cancer Society. "With these schools and the many other sports partners who support our work, we're revolutionizing how the American Cancer Society teams up with partners to make a real difference for real people every day."

"The 3-Point Challenge gives basketball fans the chance to support their teams and compete against their rivals, while fundraising for a great cause," said David Doan, vice president for strategic sports alliances, American Cancer Society. "We are excited to relaunch a fundraising program that started it all, now in the digital space, while staying true to what drives sports fans – competition."

More than 20 years ago, former University of Missouri head basketball coach Norm Stewart provided the vision and inspiration for Coaches vs. Cancer. A cancer survivor and National Association of Basketball Coaches member, he challenged fans to pledge a dollar amount for each 3-point shot his team made during the season. This 3-Point Attack concept evolved into the nationwide effort uniting coaches, fans, players, and communities in the fight against cancer, and is now known as, the 3-Point Challenge. To learn more about Coaches vs. Cancer, visit coachesvscancer.org.

About Coaches vs. Cancer

Coaches vs. Cancer is a nationwide collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the National Association of Basketball Coaches. This initiative leverages the personal experiences, community leadership, and professional excellence of coaches nationwide to increase cancer awareness and promote healthy living through year-round awareness efforts, fundraising activities, and advocacy programs. Since 1993, coaches have raised more than $100 million for the American Cancer Society.

For more information on Franklin Pierce Athletics, please visit the official website of Franklin Pierce Athletics (http://athletics.franklinpierce.edu). Also be sure to follow the Ravens through the Department of Athletics' official Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/FranklinPierceRavens), its YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/franklinpiercesports) and its Twitter feed (http://twitter.com/FPUathletics). Fans wishing to purchase Franklin Pierce basketball apparel can do so at the Department of Athletics' online store (http://athletics.franklinpierce.edu/store).