A CANCER patient and former professional basketball player is bringing a national under-12s basketball tournament to Colchester.

Towering at 6ft 9in tall and sporting size 15 shoes, Will Wise has organised the three-day Cancer Bae Classic at the Essex Sport Arena, in Colchester, from August 30 to September 1.

The tournament will host 16 of the UK’s leading under-12 basketball teams, including the Essex Rebels and the Southend Scorpions.

But for Will, the event is more than just a sporting tournament - it aims to raise awareness about cancer, a subject that hits close to home.

Shoot - Will Wise spent his early 30s as a professional basketball playerShoot - Will Wise spent his early 30s as a professional basketball player (Image: PR)

Before his diagnosis in late 2022, he spent his early 30s travelling across Europe and Australia as a professional basketball player, most recently with the Eastern Mavericks in Australia.

However, his life took an unexpected turn when he collapsed without warning and was diagnosed with both a rare tumour and a rare condition - multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2) - which had spread the cancer to his thyroid gland.

Despite a daunting prognosis, Will received successful treatment and turned his life around.

Now, he spends his time coaching young basketball players and creating his #CancerBae movement.

Will said: "My aim is to not only raise awareness but also provide unwavering support to those, like me, who are on what is a formidable journey."

Ill - Will was diagnoses with a rare condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2Ill - Will was diagnosed with a rare condition called multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (Image: PR)

Mr Wise also backs Cancer Research UK and its mission to ensure people live longer, cancer-free lives.

He said: "Cancer isn’t just a word to be whispered in hushed tones... I want people to know you can live a good life with cancer.

"It doesn’t have to define you."

Born in Philadelphia and currently living in London, Mr Wise added: "I don't know what tomorrow will bring, but I can make the most of today.

"So, my plan is to stay present, embrace new experiences, and appreciate the beauty of life.

“And organising this tournament is part of that.

"It’ll be an event filled with fun, joy and laughter, and we’d love people to come along and support it and the players."

Tickets for the event are available at ticketsource.co.uk/cancerbaeclassic.