WINONA LAKE, Ind. - Grace's men's basketball team is rallying the community behind freshman Hagen Knepp.

The Lancers are hosting their annual Hoops for Hope game on Wednesday in order to raise funds for Knepp. 

Knepp, a freshman on Grace's squad, was diagnosed with appendiceal cancer, a rare form of cancer, during Grace's preseason. The disease affects just one or two people per million and is typically seen in people between the ages of 50-55.

Knepp has already undergone major surgery and a chemo bath in his battle with cancer. 

Wednesday's 7 p.m. game between Grace and Mt. Vernon Nazarene will seek to raise funds for the Knepp family. "Hoopin' For Hagen" t-shirts will be sold for $15, and a raffle for a firework package will also be given away.

At halftime of Wednesday's game, donations will be collected in the arena for the Knepps. Those wishing to donate online can give on the GoFundMe webpage at www.gofundme.com/hoopin-for-hagen, which has raised nearly $2,500 already.

"Through this extremely difficult time, we have been so amazed by Hagen's incredible and uplifting attitude as he battles this disease," said Grace head coach Scott Moore. "The outpouring of prayers and support for Hagen around the state has been amazing. Thank you for coming around this young man and his family; it truly means the world. God is good."

Knepp was a 1,000-point scorer in high school, averaging 19.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game during his senior season. He is currently taking classes online from Grace as he continues his appointments, cheering on his teammates from afar.

Wednesday will also be Remodel Health Night. Remodel Health is Grace College's health benefits software company. Fans can have a chance to participate in halftime games and win prizes on Wednesday night from Remodel Health.

Additionally, a raffle will be held to win a prize pack of fireworks valued at $500.