The faculty basketball game is taking place today, but it’s more than just a friendly competition between faculty from the two campuses.

The game is serving as a fundraiser for East Leyden student Alex Hernandez who is in need of a new kidney.

Every year, the Sports and Entertainment Marketing class has two fundraisers. One in the fall for the faculty football game and one in the winter for the faculty basketball game. At both of these events money is raised for someone from the community that is in need of help.

Expectations are high for this year’s fundraiser.

“Ultimately we would like to raise over $2000.00” said Tim Murphy, Sports and Entertainment Marketing teacher at West.

The money is being generated from a number of things, but the biggest revenue is coming from the T-shirt sales.

Currently, there have been over 500 sold and with each priced at $10, Mr. Murphy is hopeful that they’ll be able to reach their goal.

Money is also being made from tickets, concessions, and a raffle that will take place during the game. Raffle items include passes to Pump It Up, the Franklin Park pool, a Muvico gift certificate, and a Leyden wrestling gear gift basket.

All profits will go to Hernandez, who is a senior, and his family to help with hospital bills.

The game will start at 7:00 p.m. at the East Leyden Field House. Entry will be $3 dollars unless you have purchased a T-shirt from a Sports and Entertainment Marketing student or teacher. Entry is free for those sporting the fundraising shirts.