LOUDONVILLE, NY – The Siena Men's and Women's Basketball annual Gold Rush games are taking on even greater meaning this season, as the Saints have teamed up with community partner KeyBank to raise awareness for pediatric cancer and support local nonprofit Play It Foreward 518.
 
"KeyBank is honored to stand with Siena Basketball and Play It Foreward 518 to shine a light on pediatric cancer," said Erica Choi, Capital Region Market President, KeyBank. "Gold Rush reflects our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve and making an impact for kids and families—at a time they need it most."

The annual Siena Basketball Gold Rush games featuring the women facing Fairfield on Saturday at 2 p.m. at the UHY Center, followed by the men hosting Saint Peter's on Sunday at 2 p.m. at MVP Arena. Both games will spotlight pediatric cancer awareness and include fundraising efforts on site.

In partnership with KeyBank, the first 500 spectators at the women's game Saturday and the first 2,000 fans at the men's game Sunday will receive gold rally towels. Fans are encouraged to wear gold to the games, and gold ribbons will also be available on site for fans to secure and wear to show their support for children and families impacted by pediatric cancer.

"Gold Rush has always been about creating an incredible gameday atmosphere, but this year it's about something even bigger," said Lynne Young, General Manager of Corporate Partnerships for Siena Athletics. "By going gold together, our fans can help raise awareness and directly support children and families in our community who are facing pediatric cancer."

Siena will also raffle off gold basketballs signed by head coaches Gerry McNamara and Terry Primm at their respective games. Fans who make a donation at the games to Play It Foreward 518 will be entered into a drawing, with all proceeds benefitting the organization's mission to support pediatric cancer patients and their families across the Capital Region. KeyBank will also make a donation at halftime to Play It Foreward 518.

Play It Foreward 518 is a local foundation dedicated to bringing hope, support, and resources to families affected by pediatric cancer, making it a natural partner for Siena's Gold Rush initiative.