Miami's Marcus Allen Celebrates NCAA Tournament Win Amid Cancer Fight

The senior guard helped lead the team's celebration despite his ongoing health battle.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Marcus Allen, a senior guard for the University of Miami men's basketball team, played a key role in his team's NCAA Tournament victory over Missouri despite his ongoing battle with cancer. Though he did not score any points in the game, Allen was seen enthusiastically celebrating with his teammates after the win, demonstrating his leadership and perseverance in the face of his personal health challenges.

Why it matters

Allen's inspirational performance and leadership during the tournament run despite his cancer diagnosis has resonated with fans and the college basketball community, highlighting the human side of the sport and the determination of student-athletes to overcome adversity.

The details

Allen, a 22-year-old senior, was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma last year but has continued to play and support his team throughout his treatment. In Miami's tournament win over Missouri, Allen did not record any points but was seen passionately celebrating the victory with his teammates, embracing them and jumping up and down on the court.

  • The University of Miami defeated the University of Missouri in the NCAA Tournament on March 21, 2026.

The players

Marcus Allen

A 22-year-old senior guard for the University of Miami men's basketball team who is currently battling Hodgkin's lymphoma.

University of Miami

The college basketball team that defeated the University of Missouri in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

University of Missouri

The college basketball team that lost to the University of Miami in the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Marcus is the heart and soul of our team. To see him out there celebrating with us after everything he's been through is truly inspiring.”

— Jim Larrañaga, Head Coach, University of Miami

What’s next

The University of Miami will advance to the next round of the NCAA Tournament, where they will face the winner of the game between Gonzaga and Duke.

The takeaway

Marcus Allen's courageous performance and joyful celebration in the face of his cancer diagnosis exemplifies the spirit of college athletics and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.