(April 6, 2019) MINNEAPOLIS — On Friday, two teams of cancer fighters — the Hardwood Heroes — kicked off the Final Four by going head-to-head at the U.S. Bank Stadium to raise awareness and funds in the fight against cancer. This game returns for a fourth year as a part of Infiniti's long-standing partnership with Coaches vs. Cancer, NCAA and NABC.

Two teams of 14 cancer survivors, doctors, nurses and researchers competed in a game coached by legendary NCAA Coaches Bo Ryan and Jim Calhoun. Coach Calhoun was assisted by Coach Kyle Rudolph, tight end for the Minnesota Vikings, and Coach Doug Gottlieb, basketball analyst and sports talk radio host, assisted Coach Ryan.

Playing on the same court as the National Championship Game, team Calhoun won by just one point, but in this game, there were only winners.

In support of this initiative, Turner Sports captured footage at the Hardwood Heroes team practices and game. Highlights will air during the Bridge Show between the two Final Four semifinal games today (April 6) and during the pre-game show prior to tip-off on Championship Monday on CBS.



"The Hardwood Heroes game continues to be one of the most exciting moments of the basketball season, and the spirit of these two teams of cancer fighters is truly inspiring on and off the court," said Phil O'Connor, director, Infiniti Marketing Communications and Media. "Infiniti is proud to support the NABC, NCAA and Coaches vs. Cancer, by bringing fans, coaches and players together in the battle against cancer."

Following the Hardwood Heroes game, Infiniti presented a $1 million donation to ACS as part of the brand's ongoing corporate partnership with the NCAA and NABC.

Since its partnership with the NCAA first began in 2008, Infiniti has donated more than $9 million to various charities and cancer research organizations.