IRVING, Texas – The American Conference announced a new partnership with the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, joining the national effort to raise awareness and support in the fight against all cancers affecting women.
As part of the partnership, all 13 American women’s basketball programs have committed to raising a combined $25,000 during the 2025-26 season. In return, the Kay Yow Cancer Fund will invest $50,000 directly into Birmingham, Alabama — the host city of the American Women’s Basketball Championship — to deliver lifesaving cancer care to under-resourced women in the local community.
“We are proud to partner with the Kay Yow Cancer Fund in its mission to eradicate cancer and uplift those affected by the disease,” American Conference Commissioner Tim Pernetti said. “This partnership allows our conference and member institutions to meaningfully support a cause that touches the communities we serve.”
The Kay Yow Cancer Fund was founded in 2007 in honor of Hall of Fame coach Kay Yow, who spent more than three decades leading NC State women’s basketball and became a national inspiration through her public fight against breast cancer. Since its launch, the Fund has awarded millions of dollars in research grants and expanded access to cancer screenings and support services nationwide.
The initiative extends beyond fundraising, emphasizing community impact through Play4Kay game activations, direct support for women battling cancer and local investments designed to provide hope and healing.
Fans are invited to donate to the American’s campaign throughout the entire women’s basketball regular season. Supporters may choose a specific American program to contribute to and track team-by-team progress through the season leaderboard.
To donate to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, please visit
https://charity.pledgeit.org/American.
American Conference Play4Kay Games
| Team |
Date |
Opponent |
| UAB |
February 25, 2026 |
Wichita State |
| Charlotte |
February 21, 2026 |
North Texas |
| East Carolina |
February 21, 2026 |
Rice |
| Florida Atlantic |
February 14, 2026 |
Tulsa |
| Memphis |
February 14, 2026 |
Charlotte |
| North Texas |
February 17, 2026 |
UAB |
| Rice |
February 13, 2026 |
Wichita State |
| South Florida |
February 11, 2026 |
Tulsa |
| Temple |
February 22, 2026 |
Memphis |
| UTSA |
January 31, 2026 |
Rice |
| Tulane |
February 19, 2026 |
Memphis |
| Tulsa |
February 20, 2026 |
UAB |
| Wichita State |
February 21, 2026 |
UTSA |