NC State baseball hosts annual Victory Over Cancer game

Wolfpack coach Elliott Avent started the event three years ago with the help of former player and current Major League Baseball star Trae Turner.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:04am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a college baseball game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.The annual Victory Over Cancer game at NC State brings the community together to support those affected by the disease, with a vibrant display of athletic energy and hope.Today in Raleigh

NC State's baseball team is hosting its annual Victory Over Cancer game on Saturday, an event started three years ago by Wolfpack coach Elliott Avent with the help of former player and current MLB star Trae Turner. The game honors pediatric cancer fighters, survivors, and their families, and features appearances from special guests like Turner's family and an All-ACC pitcher.

Why it matters

The Victory Over Cancer game is a meaningful event that brings the community together to support those affected by cancer, while also highlighting the personal connection coach Avent has to the cause through his young nephew's battle.

The details

The Victory Over Cancer game will take place on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Doak Field at Dail Park, as part of a weekend series between NC State and Duke. In addition to honoring cancer fighters and survivors, the event will feature appearances from special guests, including Trae Turner's wife and son, and former NC State pitcher Brian Brown.

  • The Victory Over Cancer game started three years ago.
  • The game is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Elliott Avent

The head coach of the NC State baseball team, who started the Victory Over Cancer game three years ago.

Trae Turner

A former NC State baseball player who is now a Major League Baseball star, and has helped Avent organize the Victory Over Cancer game.

Brian Brown

A former All-ACC pitcher for NC State who will be in attendance at the Victory Over Cancer game.

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What they’re saying

“It's amazing. Like, Jimmy V's doctor was here for the first year that we had it, his actual doctor as he fought that fight, and Trae's wife and son Beckham, and I think her family are going to be here this weekend, Brian Brown, All-ACC pitcher ... is going to be here today.”

— Elliott Avent, NC State Baseball Coach

“Everybody that's fighting a fight, the main thing you need is hope.”

— Elliott Avent, NC State Baseball Coach

What’s next

The Victory Over Cancer game is an annual event, so the next iteration will take place in 2027.

The takeaway

The Victory Over Cancer game is a powerful example of how sports can be used to bring a community together and provide hope and support for those affected by cancer. Coach Avent's personal connection to the cause, and the involvement of former players like Trae Turner, make this event even more meaningful.