Dunk MS And UCLA Join Forces For Groundbreaking MS Research Fundraiser

On Saturday, May 18th, UCLA's Pauley Pavilion will be the venue for Dunk MS, an annual charity event that draws the world's top professional dunkers. This event, a brainchild of former UCLA Basketball player Blake Arnet, is organized in collaboration with UCLA Athletics and UCLA Health. It serves as a tribute to Arnet's late mother, Brigitte, who valiantly battled multiple sclerosis (MS) until her passing. Dunk MS is not just a showcase of athletic prowess but also a community fundraiser featuring a kid's basketball clinic, an MS community zone, raffle prizes, sponsor tables, a silent auction, a wellness center, an orange carpet event, alongside free food and entertainment.

The initiative supports MS research at UCLA Health under the guidance of Dr. Voskuhl, a leading figure in MS research. "Their annual contribution helps us hire the best undergrad and post-grad students to further our world-class MS research," Dr. Voskuhl remarked on the partnership with Dunk MS. The event was founded by Blake Arnet following his mother's diagnosis in 2007 and her subsequent passing in 2009. What started as a side project in 2018 quickly grew into a significant event for both the MS community and basketball enthusiasts across Southern California.

Scott Cohen, EY Entrepreneur of the Year and Co-Founder of Byte and Alter, expressed his enthusiasm about Alter being the presenting sponsor for Dunk MS 2024. He highlighted the alignment of AlterCares' mission with the goals of Dunk MS in making health and wellness accessible while empowering communities. The event promises to be a gathering spot for professional dunkers, pro athletes, basketball influencers, UCLA student-athletes, MS influencers, and celebrities.

This year marks a significant milestone for Dunk MS as it celebrates its partnership with UCLA Athletics and UCLA Health. Ric Coy, Assistant Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Development at UCLA Athletics, emphasized the importance of community service and volunteering among student-athletes and expressed excitement about the collaboration with Dunk MS.

Dunk MS stands out as a unique event that unites the multiple sclerosis and basketball communities towards a common goal: finding a cure for MS. The donations raised during the event are directed towards supporting MS research at UCLA Health led by Dr. Voskuhl. For more information about Dunk MS 2024 and how to participate or contribute to this cause, interested parties are encouraged to visit dunkms.com.

Founded by Blake Arnet, an alumnus of Mater Dei and UCLA Basketball, Dunk MS has evolved into an essential event for those within the MS community and basketball fans alike. It offers an array of activities before the main dunk show that caters to families and individuals of all ages, making it not just an event but a comprehensive experience dedicated to fostering hope and support for those affected by multiple sclerosis.