Pink and white is the theme; breast cancer awareness is the cause.

The Women’s Center and the Alumni Association, in conjunction with Health Promotion and Parent and Family Association, are hosting the third annual Hoops for Hope event.

This year’s event takes place on Jan. 28 in Reynold’s Coliseum. Registration is online and ends Jan. 19.

Before the women’s basketball game against Boston College begins, there will be plenty of pregame activities. The event will begin with a silent auction, feature an a cappella ensemble, Packabelles, brunch and presentations.

This year’s program will be very similar to the past two years, according to Laci Weeden, assistant director of the Women’s Center.

“The idea is that we’re raising awareness and raising money for breast cancer,” Lauren Welch, a graduate student in higher education administration, said.

All proceeds benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

This event covers an important issue for all women, according to Welch , but said she participates in the planning because of a family history of breast cancer.

“This event is geared towards the entire N.C. State community to educate people about breast cancer and early detection,” Weeden said. “We’re also here to support [women’s basketball] coach [Kay] Yow.”

Yow has been away from her basketball team since Nov. 23 because of treatment for her recurrence of breast cancer.

Weeden said a lot of students do not think they need to check for breast cancer, but they need to check it now, not 10 years down the road.

Welch said she enjoys actively participating in the planning of this event because it relates to so many people.

“This is an important event for the N.C. State community because it is a cause that affects everyone and this event can educate college women about early detection,” Welch said.