Today was a milestone for the Bergen basketball community as General Managers from across the league, with the President of The Norwegian Basketball Federation (NBBF) Jan Hendrik Parmann, gathered to foster collaboration and discuss the future of youth development in Bergen, Norway. The event brought together key figures from basketball clubs across the region, united by a shared vision to strengthen the sport for the younger generation and a mutual passion for basketball.

“Norwegian Basket's core values ​​are "inclusive", "fun" and "developing", and the Basketakademiet lives up to all of these to such an extent! When our vision includes "Basketball - more than a sport", then I can't help but applaud the Basketakademiet. They definitely contribute to more than "just" a sport. They build confident young people in inclusive upbringing environments with good role models to strive for!”

- Jan Hendrik Parmann – President of the Norwegian Basketball Association

At the heart of the event was Basketakademiet, a collaborative project between eight basketball clubs in Bergen, supported by the Norwegian Basketball Federation (NBBF). This initiative focuses on creating safe and inclusive spaces for children and youth to grow both socially and athletically. Kristoffer Gjerdem Sætren, General Manager of Basketakademiet, emphasized the importance of unity among clubs, stating, “When we come together, we not only improve our own clubs but strengthen the entire basketball community. Rivalries on the court are essential to the spirit of the game, but off the court, we are united in our mission to support the next generation through collaboration, open communication, and shared values.”

A key highlight of the event was Sætren's introduction of Meteva Sport og Helse and its dedicated team, which included Louise Mohn, founder of both Meteva Sport og Helse and Basketakademiet, Henriette Wilhelmina Skouen, Marketing & Communications specialist, and Writer, Matt Jacobi-Caprio. Additionally, Bouna Black Ndiaye, a full-time basketball player for Fyllingen Lions and Administrator at Meteva Sport og Helse, shared his unique perspective. His personal values align with Meteva’s vision, both on and off the court, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and unity for the academy’s success.

Unity Beyond the Court

The event was a true reflection of sportsmanship, collaboration, and unity among the clubs. Gatherings like today’s demonstrate the importance of working together, even when competition heats up on game day. The camaraderie, mutual respect, and shared goals within the basketball community not only strengthen the clubs but shape the future of the sport itself.

The vision of Basketakademiet aligns with the Norwegian Basketball Federation’s slogan: "Basketball - More Than Just A Sport." Through their efforts, they aim to serve as role models and pillars of strong values for the younger generation and beyond.