March Mayhem with Dick Vitale Returns to Sarasota: Celebrity Watch Party Supports Cancer Research
Sarasota is getting ready for an exciting night of college basketball, celebrity appearances, and a powerful cause. March Mayhem with Dick Vitale, an Elite Eight watch party benefiting cancer research, will take place March 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, 7061 Wireless Court in Sarasota.
The high-energy event will bring together sports fans, community leaders, and several well-known athletes and coaches to celebrate the excitement of the NCAA basketball tournament while raising funds to fight cancer.
Legendary basketball broadcaster Dick Vitale, known to millions as the voice of college basketball on ESPN, will headline the evening. Vitale has become one of the most passionate advocates in the country for pediatric cancer research. In recent years, his personal battle with cancer has only strengthened his dedication to the cause, making events like this even more meaningful for supporters.
Guests attending the event will enjoy watching the Elite Eight games on massive screens, creating the atmosphere of a championship watch party. The evening will also feature a silent auction filled with sports memorabilia, unique experiences, and collectible items, along with raffles offering attendees the chance to win exciting prizes.
A number of sports celebrities are expected to attend the event, including former North Carolina State star Derrick Whittenburg, whose legendary shot helped spark the Wolfpack’s improbable run to the 1983 national championship. Additional guests include Marcus Liberty, a standout player from the University of Illinois and former NBA player, along with Jerod Ward, David Baas, Mike Brown, and basketball coach Barry “Slice” Rohrssen, among others. Their presence will give attendees the opportunity to mingle with sports personalities while supporting an important cause.
Proceeds from the evening will benefit the V Foundation for Cancer Research, an organization that has become one of the nation’s most respected cancer research charities. Founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, the legendary North Carolina State basketball coach, the foundation was created shortly after Valvano’s unforgettable ESPY Awards speech urging the world to continue the fight against cancer.
Since its founding, the V Foundation has awarded more than $458 million in cancer research grants supporting groundbreaking studies across the United States. The organization maintains a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the highest possible rating, and is recognized as being among the top three percent of charities nationwide for financial transparency and accountability. It also holds a GuideStar Platinum rating, further reinforcing its reputation for responsible stewardship of donated funds.
Vitale has been one of the foundation’s most visible ambassadors for decades, raising millions of dollars for pediatric cancer research through events, telethons, and charity initiatives. His tireless energy and signature enthusiasm have inspired thousands of supporters to join the fight.
Tickets for March Mayhem with Dick Vitale are available to the public, with individual tickets priced at $250. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for businesses and individuals who want to play a larger role in supporting the cause.
With great basketball, celebrity appearances, and the opportunity to support life-saving cancer research, the event promises to be one of the most exciting sports-related charity nights on the Suncoast this spring.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit: https://mayhem.givesmart.com
Additional event information is also available by calling 941-350-0580.