UAB Pitcher Caden Kok Beats Cancer, Rejoins Team

After a Stage IV lymphoma diagnosis, the junior transfer finds strength and support from his UAB baseball family.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:34am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball player's journey through cancer treatment, with sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes representing the fragmented and multifaceted nature of his experience.A UAB baseball player's courageous battle with cancer is reflected in a cubist-inspired illustration that captures the fragmented emotions and determination of his recovery journey.Today in Birmingham

UAB pitcher Caden Kok was ready for a breakout season when he transferred to the school this year. But during the team's first workout, he felt a sudden back pain that led to a devastating cancer diagnosis - Stage IV diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Rather than return home to Florida, Kok decided to stay in Birmingham for treatment, leaning on his tight-knit Blazers teammates every step of the way. After months of chemotherapy, Kok rang the bell at UAB's hospital, signaling the end of his cancer treatment. Now back on the field with his team, Kok is working to regain his strength and return to the mound.

Why it matters

Kok's story highlights the power of community and support during a health crisis. Despite facing a serious cancer diagnosis, the junior pitcher found strength in his UAB baseball family, who rallied around him throughout his treatment. His perseverance and positive attitude also serve as an inspiration to others battling illness.

The details

In the first workout of the year, Kok felt a sudden, sharp pain in his back while squatting. Initial tests didn't reveal much, but an MRI showed signs of something more serious. Kok was diagnosed with Stage IV diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Rather than return home to Florida, Kok decided to stay in Birmingham for treatment, with the hospital just minutes away from campus and his teammates by his side every day. Kok had a port put in and began chemotherapy, documenting his journey on social media. On January 22nd, before his third round of chemo, Kok rang the bell at UAB's hospital, marking the end of his treatment.

  • In the team's first workout of the year, Kok felt a sudden back pain.
  • Kok was diagnosed with Stage IV diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.
  • Kok began chemotherapy treatment in Birmingham.
  • On January 22nd, Kok rang the bell at UAB's hospital, signaling the end of his treatment.

The players

Caden Kok

A junior pitcher who transferred to UAB this season and was ready for a breakout year before being diagnosed with Stage IV lymphoma.

Casey Dunn

The head baseball coach at UAB, who praised the team's support for Kok throughout his cancer journey.

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What they’re saying

“This is probably one of the most enjoyable teams I've ever been a part of, the best group of guys. It's so much fun, they made it super easy, super welcoming.”

— Caden Kok, UAB Pitcher

“He's got 35 buddies that are here with him, he's got roommates that are with him every day, our local kids' families have embraced him and taken care of him, and like I said, our medical staff here, there ain't no place better.”

— Casey Dunn, UAB Head Baseball Coach

What’s next

Kok is currently working to regain his strength and work his way back to full participation with the UAB baseball team. The team and coaching staff are supporting him throughout his recovery process.

The takeaway

Caden Kok's story demonstrates the power of community and support during a health crisis. Despite facing a serious cancer diagnosis, the junior pitcher found strength in his tight-knit UAB baseball family, who rallied around him throughout his treatment. His perseverance and positive attitude serve as an inspiration to others battling illness.