ISU fans raise money in support of opposing coach’s wife
Iowa State head men’s basketball coach Steve Prohm watches his players during the game against North Dakota State University on Tuesday night. The Cyclones went on to defeat the Bison 84-64.
December 5, 2015
Iowa State and Buffalo will battle on the court Monday night, but ISU fans are joining forces with Buffalo to battle a much bigger opponent off the court.
Buffalo head coach Nate Oats’ wife, Crystal, is currently battling lymphoma. As is often the case, medical bills have piled up for the family.
Chris Williams, publisher of CycloneFanatic.com, set up a GoFundMe fundraiser titled “Cyclones for the Oats Family” where Iowa State fans can donate money to help with the Oats’ medical bills.
Ok #Cyclones. Here’s another opportunity to show how caring you are.Let’s step up & support the family of @nate_oats https://t.co/qLXGolzLKu
— Chris Williams (@ChrisMWilliams) December 4, 2015
“I think it would be very cool for the Cyclone nation to step up, do what they can and help support the Oats family (along with their three daughters Lexi, Jocie and Brielle) that is struggling to keep up with medical bills,” Williams wrote on the GoFundMe page.
@ChrisMWilliams CyclONEnation please take a minute to help Nate Oates and his family! Thanks!!! This is a bigger battle then any game!
— Steve Prohm (@CoachProhm) December 4, 2015
So far, Cyclone fans have responded. In just one day, 195 people donated to the cause. The initial goal of raising $5,000 for the Oats family has already been surpassed.
“Prayers from cyclONEnation,” wrote one donor.
“Fight like hell, Crystal. Prayers from Iowa State,” wrote another.
“Rooting for the Cyclones on the court. Rooting for you wife in life!” wrote another.
The GoFundMe page can be found here.
