The V Foundation for Cancer Research has announced that Youngstown State's Dallas Blocker is a finalist for the 10th annual V Foundation Comeback Award.
A press release from the foundation stated that the award is presented in conjunction with ESPN and the recipient will be announced March 30 during ESPN's basketball coverage. The V Foundation Comeback Award is given to an individual or a team who has accomplished a personal triumph in the face of true adversity, be it health, life or moral dilemma.
This award is presented in memory of Jim Valvano, the late basketball coach and ESPN commentator whose personal battle with cancer inspired the creation of the V Foundation. In his memorable speech at ESPN’s inaugural ESPY Awards announcing the creation of The V Foundation, Valvano’s “Don’t Give Up. . .Don’t Ever Give Up!”® motto created a legacy from which the Comeback Award was created.
“We continue to be amazed at the strength and resilience of the student-athletes who are nominated for The V Foundation Comeback Award,” said V Foundation CEO Nick Valvano. “These young people are outstanding student-athletes who have faced adversity and challenges with determination and strength.”
Blocker, a YSU senior basketball player, was diagnosed with cancer on Feb. 10, 2009. He returned home to Topeka, Kan., and missed the final seven games of the 2008-09 season.
After two surgeries, Blocker returned to Youngstown and underwent chemotherapy. During this time, he continued his workout regime with walking, shooting baskets and weight training.
In Sept. 2009 Blocker was given a clean bill of health and played in 23 of 25 games while averaging 3.9 points and 3.4 rebounds per game. This season, Blocker set career single-game highs in rebounding (11), assists (6) and blocks (4).
In a prepared statement from YSU, Blocker said, "To be named a finalist for the V Foundation Comeback Award is very humbling. The V Foundation for Cancer Research has saved so many lives and I feel fortunate to have been able to beat cancer and finish my college basketball career."
Information provided by YSU Sports Information
