- E
- C
- J
Hello everyone,
My name is Will Wise. I’m a former professional basketball player, now a coach and Founder of CancerBae, and I’m currently living with stage 4 cancer.
I work with young athletes across London every day, and through both my journey and my work, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful sport can be not just for competition, but for connection, confidence, and community.
That’s why I created the CancerBae Classic.
Our Story
When I was diagnosed in January 2023, everything changed.
What I realised quickly is that for many people living with cancer especially stage 4 it’s not just about “fighting” or “battling.” It’s about learning how to live with it, and finding purpose within that reality.
I started #CancerBae to change how people see and talk about cancer turning something often spoken about in silence into something we can approach with honesty, community, and even hope.
Since then:
• The #CancerBae movement has reached millions of people worldwide
• My story has been featured across major platforms including BBC, ITV, ESPN, Evening Standard, and London Times
• And most importantly, we’ve built a growing community of people who feel seen, supported, and empowered
What is the CancerBae Classic?
The CancerBae Classic is a global youth basketball event but it’s much more than a tournament.
It’s a platform.
It brings together young athletes, families, and communities to compete at a high level while also creating space for real conversations around cancer, mental health, and resilience.
Now entering Year 3, the event has grown significantly.
2026 Event Details:
Copper Box Arena, London
August 19–23, 2026
This year we’re expecting:
• 300+ athletes across boys, girls, and wheelchair divisions
• Thousands of attendees
• A growing national and international audience
• Continued partnerships with organisations like Cancer Research UK
We are also beginning to engage with the wider basketball ecosystem, including early conversations connected to the future growth of the game in the UK.
Why This Matters
This isn’t just about basketball.
It’s about:
• Kids playing while navigating real-life challenges at home
• Families finding a space where they feel understood
• Creating moments these young players will remember for the rest of their lives
It’s about turning something difficult into something meaningful.
Why We Need Your Support
As the event grows, so does the scale of what it takes to deliver it properly.
Your support will help us:
• Secure and operate a world-class venue
• Deliver a professional, unforgettable experience for the players
• Provide equipment, staffing, and event logistics
• Support accessibility and participation for teams and families
• Continue building a platform that blends sport with real impact
Our Goal
We are aiming to raise £20,000+ to support the delivery of the 2026 CancerBae Classic and ensure it continues to grow sustainably.
A portion of proceeds will also continue to support cancer-related initiatives and awareness through our wider work.
Join Us
If you’ve ever been affected by cancer directly or indirectly then you understand why this matters.
This is about community.
This is about impact.
This is about creating something bigger than the game.
Every donation, no matter the size, helps us move one step closer.
Thank you for being part of this journey.
Will Wise
Founder, CancerBae
Learn More About My Story
Innovator feature: https://www.innovatorpulse.com/from-stage-4-cancer-diagnosis-to-a-youth-sports-revolution/
Organizer
