Hoops for Pink

Boys game 5:30 p.m.
Girls game 7 p.m.

“Every basket is for them. They are fighting harder than we are on the court.”
— Brenna Khaw, senior

There’s only one evening of basketball scheduled in Camas this week, and it’s the most important one.

Not in the sense of league standings or keeping a winning streak alive. The Papermakers are only thinking about helping breast cancer victims and survivors. That’s why the Camas and Heritage high school teams are going to be wearing pink during their games Thursday. The boys tip off at 5:30 p.m., followed by the girls at 7.

“Life isn’t all about basketball. There are bigger things happening in the world,” said CHS senior guard Brenna Khaw. “It’s a great way to remember those people we have lost and to help the ones who are still struggling with this disease. We play for them on that day. Every basket is for them. They are fighting even harder than we are on the court.”

Nadine Knight said the players, coaches, parents, local businesses and community members have kept this annual Camas fundraiser going strong for the past seven years. Each year, the Papermakers have donated thousands of dollars to the Kay Yow Foundation.

Students and fans can purchase $10 Hoops for Pink shirts at the CHS ASB Office. More than 30 raffle baskets will be up for bidding during the games. Knight said one of the baskets includes a $550 “Weekend in Camas.” It includes a two-night stay at the Camas Hotel, two dinners and breakfasts, and tickets to the Liberty Theatre.

The Camas girls (14-3 overall, 9-0 in league) roll into this event on a 13-game winning streak.

The Papermakers defeated Union 45-35 Jan. 27. Khaw delivered 14 of her team-leading 16 points in the second half. Nikki Corbett netted 12 points and Teague Schroeder earned 11.

“It was sloppy on both ends, but I’m glad we could pull through and win the game,” Khaw said. “It’s all about being patient, executing and sticking together as a team. When we’re not in panic mode, we can make better decisions with the ball and make better shots.”

Camas played with more poise at Battle Ground Friday, and prevailed 50-36. Khaw scored 20 points, including 12 in the second quarter. The Papermakers had a 32-18 lead at halftime.

Emma Jones notched nine points, Corbett and Courtney Clemmer each added eight, and Schroeder finished with five.

Seniors Khaw, Corbett and Rachel Gray look forward to continuing a tradition in Camas of helping others.

“It’s a great way to raise money and awareness for breast cancer,” Khaw said. “And it’s always fun to get decked out in pink.”