Jan. 17, 2013

BRONX, N.Y. - The Fordham women's basketball team will take part in the second game of "We Back Pat" week on Sunday when the Rams host the Richmond Spiders. Members of the Fordham Athletic Department will be accepting donations to benefit the Pat Summitt Foundation, with all proceeds going to Alzheimer's research and awareness.

The Pat Summitt Foundation, set up by the long time Tennessee women's basketball coach and all-time college basketball wins leader, makes grants to non-profit organizations that provide education and awareness of Alzheimer's, its treatment and its onset. The foundation also contributes to charities that champion support services to patients, families and caregivers, while simultaneously supporting those organizations dedicated to the research that will ultimately eradicate this dreaded disease.

In 38 years on the bench for the Lady Volunteers, Pat Summitt secured her place as one of the premier coaches in college basketball history with 1,098 wins, becoming the only coach in either men's or women's basketball to surpass 1,000 victories. Summitt guided Tennessee to eight NCAA championships during that time, winning 84 percent of the games that she coached.

"Pat Summitt is a first class person and a first class coach," said Fordham head coach Stephanie V. Gaitley. "We are happy to support her and her program. Pat's work ethic and passion for success is second to none. This program will allow Pat to once again positively impact the lives of many people."

In addition to donating at the game against Richmond on Sunday, fans can donate $10 now by texting the word "COACH" to 50555.

Game time for Sunday is set for 2 PM and tickets are available through fordhamsports.com or by calling (855) RAM-TIXS.