ESPN Commits $1 Million to The V Foundation for Cancer Research

ESPN Executive Chairman George Bodenheimer announced today, as ESPN's Jimmy V Week for Cancer Research begins, that ESPN has committed a donation of $1 million to The V Foundation for Cancer Research. The dollars are earmarked for The V Foundation's endowment fund, which helps cover operating costs of the foundation, enabling 100 percent of cash donations to go directly to research.

Bodenheimer, also a member of The V Foundation Board of Directors, said, "It's fitting for ESPN to make this commitment as we begin Jimmy V Week, when our employees and sports fans are passionate in joining together to make a difference to beat this disease."

Bob Lloyd, Chairman of the Board of Directors for The V Foundation and former teammate of Jim Valvano, added, "ESPN, its people and fans continually amaze us with their commitment, not only financially, but also in raising national awareness for The Foundation."

ESPN's sixth annual Jimmy V Week for Cancer Research - a multiplatform initiative which drives awareness of and donations to The V Foundation for Cancer Research - tips off Tuesday, Nov. 27, at 7 p.m. ET with a simulcast of former NC State coach Jim Valvano's 1993 ESPYs speech across ESPN domestic media networks, as well as on the ABC SuperSign in Times Square. The week will conclude with the Jimmy V Women's and Men's Basketball Classics Presented by Corona Extra on Monday, Dec. 3 and Tuesday, Dec. 4. For more information on Jimmy V Week for Cancer Research, visit ESPN Media Zone.

About The V Foundation

The V Foundation for Cancer Research was founded in 1993 by ESPN and the late Jim Valvano, legendary North Carolina State basketball coach and ESPN commentator. Since 1993, The Foundation has awarded more than $100 million to fund cancer research grants nationwide. It awards 100 percent of all direct cash donations and net proceeds of events directly to cancer research and related programs. Administrative and fundraising expenses are paid by the Foundation's endowment. The Foundation awards grants through a competitive awards process strictly supervised by a Scientific Advisory Board. For more information on The V Foundation or to make a donation, please visit www.jimmyv.org .

About Team ESPN

Team ESPN, the corporate outreach program of ESPN, encompasses ESPN's multi-faceted community relations initiatives, including volunteerism, corporate giving and cause marketing, while utilizing its diverse media assets. Through Team ESPN, ESPN employees and fans join together to make a difference in the communities in which we operate. Its slogan is "Fans Helping Fans."(R) www.teamespn.com.