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Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv has made history with the creation of Israel’s first unified basketball team, bringing together individuals with and without cognitive disabilities.

Hapoel Tel Aviv’s “Equals” basketball team: A new era of inclusion in Israel

Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv has made history with the creation of Israel’s first unified basketball team, bringing together individuals with and without cognitive disabilities. Spearheaded by Danny Or, Hapoel’s One Team Manager, the initiative aims to foster inclusion, community, and empowerment for people who often face social isolation.

Danny’s inspiration for the project comes from his own experience as a father. His son, Adam, was diagnosed with autism and epilepsy at a young age, and Danny became an advocate for children with disabilities. He soon realized that after the age of 21, many individuals with special needs face a lack of opportunities, which led him to start the team. With the success of a similar initiative in Hapoel’s soccer program, Danny decided to create a unified basketball team.

The project faced challenges early on – from securing gym space to hiring experienced coaches – but with support from local authorities and organizations, the team began to take shape. Players with disabilities were recruited through the Center for Independent Living, and Hapoel fans filled the remaining spots.

The primary goal of the team was to give people with disabilities the chance to play basketball, build friendships, and break free from isolation. Practices became a lifeline, offering a space for growth, confidence, and connection. It also helped combat the inactivity that many individuals with disabilities experience after turning 21.

What started as a local project in Tel Aviv has now spread across Israel, with five other “Equals” teams established. The success of Hapoel’s One Team program has inspired other clubs to launch similar initiatives, showing that inclusion can thrive in any sport.

The team continues to innovate, with new initiatives like an independent homework framework and monthly meetings with Hapoel's youth department, teaching the importance of acceptance and diversity to younger generations.

Hapoel’s unified basketball team is more than just a sports program; it’s a powerful symbol of how diversity and inclusion can change lives. Through teamwork and mutual respect, the team is leading the way in creating a more inclusive Israel, proving that everyone deserves a place to play and belong.

After successful events in Sopot, Milan, Paris, and Vitoria, Euroleague Basketball’s One Team program and Motorola brought their “Bouncing for Good” initiative to Athens. On April 1, a special workshop took place at the 57th Primary School of Athens, where 80 children aged between eight and eleven participated in the event. 

 

The workshop was made even more memorable by the presence of two One Team Ambassadors, one from either side of the Greek divide: [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/) guard [Giannoulis Larentzakis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/giannoulis-larentzakis/010392/) and [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/panathinaikos-aktor-athens/pan/) guard [Dimitris Moraitis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/dimitris-moraitis/006544/). They joined forces to share their passion for the game and encourage the young participants.

 

The workshop focused on skills that the kids can learn from basketball. It was designed to instill key life values such as teamwork, perseverance, and discipline – values that will benefit the children both on and off the court. The event aimed to empower the young participants to develop as individuals, with strong character and leadership potential inspired by the values of sport and the voices of their favorite athletes.

 

The 57th Primary School of Athens, located in Kolonos, an underprivileged district where many families face socioeconomic challenges and social exclusion, plays a crucial role as a safe and supportive space for children. Many of the students come from immigrant backgrounds and grapple with poverty and limited access to educational resources. Despite these difficulties, the school is a vibrant environment where dedicated teachers and staff work relentlessly to inspire and uplift students, nurturing their potential and encouraging them to dream beyond their current circumstances.

 

On April 8, the “Bouncing for Good” initiative continued with the donation of basketballs to 150 children from the 57th Primary School of Athens. This event, which took place from 10:00am to 12:00pm at the school’s outdoor court, was attended by Larentzakis and Olympiacos teammate [Shaquielle McKissic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shaquielle-mckissic/007853/), who is also a One Team Ambassador, as well as two One Team Ambassadors from Panathinaikos, Moraitis and [Juancho Hernangomez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/juancho-hernangomez/012712/). Together, they personally handed over the basketballs, giving the children the tools they need to continue pursuing their love of the sport and further develop important life skills.

 

Juancho Hernangómez expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, saying: "It’s an honor to be part of the One Team-Motorola ‘Bouncing for Good’ initiative and to share these special moments with the children. Basketball has given me so much, and being able to give back—whether through a simple gesture like donating a basketball or spending time with them on the court—means a lot to me. I truly believe in the power of sport to inspire and unite, and I’m grateful to be involved in this meaningful program."

 

Giannoulis Larentzakis echoed this sentiment, highlighting his commitment to One Team’s mission: "Seeing the excitement in these kids’ eyes reminds me why initiatives like this matter so much. Basketball teaches us values like teamwork, perseverance, and respect—lessons that extend far beyond the game. I’m proud to be a One Team Ambassador and to take part in projects that make a real difference in young people’s lives."

 

Daniela Idi, EMEA Marketing Director at Motorola, shared her thoughts on the initiative: “This project has been about more than basketball — it’s about creating moments of inspiration and showing children that their dreams matter. Closing the season in Athens, with the incredible energy of the students and support from Euroleague and local heroes, has been the perfect way to wrap up this journey — and we look forward to returning in September to reach even more young dreamers”

 

Abigail Martin, Director of Sustainability & Development Projects at Euroleague Basketball,   "Thanks to this beautiful collaboration with Motorola, Euroleague Basketball's social program One Team has been able to make a deeper impact in our communities through the EuroLeague and EuroCup clubs' One Team programs and with the player ambassadors taking on a key role in sharing the developmental benefits to their sport and inspiring school students to give the best version of themselves by using sport's values."

 

This initiative aims to build on the school’s efforts by providing students with hands-on experiences in technology, teamwork, respect, and fun. For these children, this workshop is a rare opportunity to explore new possibilities, develop essential skills, and build the confidence to envision a brighter future. The experience hopes to leave a lasting impact, reinforcing the school’s vital role in shaping the lives of its students and offering hope to the wider community.

 

The “Bouncing for Good” initiative is part of a long-term collaboration between One Team, Euroleague Basketball’s social responsibility program, and Motorola. This partnership is key to creating lasting impact in the community and helping to bridge gaps in society in association with the clubs' One Team programs and the players that season after season support their communities as One Team Ambassadors.

 

As the program continues, it will strengthen the bonds within the community, offer new opportunities, and inspire future generations to dream big as they go in pursuit of their goals.

The children got to meet Olympiacos duo Giannoulis Larentzakis and Shaquielle McKissic, and Panathinaikos pair Juancho Hernangomez and Dimitris Moraitis

“Bouncing for Good” provides young people in Athens with a day to remember

Roberta Meneghel has made significant strides in the world of basketball, not only as a player but also as a dedicated advocate for social inclusion. She joined Umana Reyer Venice in 2010, where she concluded her playing career – she still represented the Italian national team until 2013 – before transitioning into a management role and eventually becoming the Responsible Manager of Social Programs. She is also into her third year as the club’s One Team Manager.

Roberta Meneghel: An ex-pro giving back to society by collaborating with Reyer, One Team

Roberta Meneghel has made significant strides in the world of basketball, not only as a player but also as a dedicated advocate for social inclusion. She joined [Umana Reyer Venice](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/umana-reyer-venice/vnc/) in 2010, where she concluded her playing career – she still represented the Italian national team until 2013 – before transitioning into a management role and eventually becoming the Responsible Manager of Social Programs. She is also into her third year as the club’s One Team Manager.

Reyer’s One Team project has been operating for five years, with the club currently in the fourth consecutive year of its cooperation with Coges Don Milani, which focuses on minors in the community. As Roberta explained in an interview for the One Team website, Reyer placed a focus on those who are at risk of exclusion when it came to deciding which group it wanted to focus its efforts on.

“We started thinking about what groups are in danger of exclusion in our community and we thought that a current theme was the inclusion of foreigners coming to Italy from another country,” she explained. “Basketball is a sport without borders so we thought it could be a good connection. We contacted the social workers of Coges Don Milani, Ms. Valentina Vianello, and explained our One Team project; as she played basketball, she fell in love since the beginning.

“She explained to us the aim of the community and the stories of the kids and how we could be useful for their needs. The community takes care of minors coming from different countries, reported by the authorities, to help them to become new and good citizens. They create a program for each one, helping with the documents, with the language, making them study and ensuring they are independent when they become 18.

“The objective of the program is to make the minors feel part of a community, teaching them how to relate with other people, observing rules, being friendly and polite, focus on learning a new sport and put any effort to solve problems and limits.”

One big positive from Reyer’s One Team work is the real-life impact those involved with the project are able to see among the participants, particularly after sessions. “We can see clearly the benefits of the project at the end of every season," he said. "The most beautiful thing is to see how they thank us after every practice, how they have improved with the language, with the rules.

“For example, being responsible by bringing their One Team T-shirt to every practice (it seems banal, but it isn’t), cleaning the bench, not disturbing while the coach is talking… things that at the beginning were not considered before, but day by day we see how they now think about it. Another positive aspect we noticed increasing day by day is the capacity to trust us and feel comfortable with us. Treating them good but strict when it’s necessary, making them laugh and trying to learn their language helped us to be accepted so they can really feel safe in that space.

“Having every year a new group is itself a challenge, because every year we have to start over without knowing which kind of group we will have,” she added. “The minors come from different countries, with different cultures, different languages, so every year we need to find the right key to communicate with them, to make them communicate with each other and accept their teammates, because we are all One Team. If they see that everyone is treated good, if they act good and all their efforts are rewarded, they will recognize it.”

In order to give the participants added motivation during the session, two first-team players at Reyer have shown their support for the program by making sure they are in attendance whenever they can.

“This year we have two One Team Ambassadors, Davide Casarin and Juan Fernandez,” she stated. “They make an extra effort to be as present as possible at the sessions, like their teammates, since they almost always practice at the same time as us. But when they come, the participants are so happy because they can play with them, take selfies and follow their example. When they understand that they are playing with famous athletes, they look at them with a different eye, and they recognize how blessed they are to have this unique experience.”

For Roberta, her reason for being involved with One Team is clear.

“I love social projects and I love being useful, so when Reyer talked about the One Team project and asked me to be the manager of it I literally fall in love with,” she said. “The idea of helping youth at risk to find a motivation, to believe that the world is not so bad, giving them hope and fun with the instrument of basketball, that is my life. It was a dream for me. Sports teach people to live; most of the participants survived tragedies, so helping them to see a light after the tunnel is an inspiration for me, too.”

It is also important that Roberta and the other One Team Managers at Reyer are able to show the participants something that may not be the norm in the countries they are from.

“The first time I went to take them with the minibus, they looked at me thinking, ‘Oh wow, a woman driving a minibus?’. Then they recognized that I was also good at it and they were fighting to come into my minibus… also because I let them play their music and I sing with them! It’s also funny looking their face when Valentina and I shoot the ball. They are like, ‘Damn, they also good at’. This helps us to show them a different point of view.”

Reyer has already done so much as part of its One Team program, but how is the club hoping to take things to the next level?

“We are thinking about new experiences that can give them something new, not only related with basketball,” Roberta explained. “Fortunately the project has a good visibility on social media and in the newspapers, and a video of the practice with the journalists was also broadcasted on regional TV news. The goal is to implement the activities to have even more impact. We’d like that everyone knows that Reyer is not only a sport club but also a social club, with many activities for the community.”

Given the way in which she has been able to have such a profound impact on many participants’ lives, Roberta is the right person to offer some advice to any other teams that may look to replicate the same level of success.

“First of all, having a good structure is fundamental,” she said. “Also having resources and finding the right people. The coach has to understand the focus of the project and the club has to understand the importance of a social activity. Media outlets and social media are crucial to spreading the voice and helping to find partners. Partners must be involved in practices and activities because they need to know why they are so important. There are many communities or associations to work with, so it’s important to find the one that can fit the club.”

Roberta Meneghel's journey from a professional athlete to a social advocate exemplifies the transformative power of sports. Through Reyer’s One Team program, she is making a lasting impact on the lives of many participants, proving that basketball is indeed a sport that transcends borders and fosters community spirit.

She is positively impacting the lives of many young migrants

At [Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/cedevita-olimpija-ljubljana/lju/), basketball is a platform for education, personal growth, and community engagement. This season, they have taken that philosophy a step further by introducing an internship program for six children from its One Team program, offering them hands-on experience in game-day operations and how the club works. Consequently, the initiative not only gives kids valuable behind-the-scenes experience but also helps them develop important life skills such as teamwork, responsibility, and problem-solving. 

This program was the result of the club's desire to provide young people a real-world understanding of what goes into organizing a professional basketball event. While many fans only see the excitement of the game itself, a significant amount of planning, coordination, and effort happens before the first whistle blows. 

### The interns’ responsibilities  

On game days, the One Team interns arrive early at the arena to assist the OT Managers, Matic and Samo, who are instrumental in guiding them, ensuring that they understand each responsibility while also encouraging them to ask questions and take initiative. Their responsibilities included arranging VIP seating and preparing guest lists to ensure a seamless experience for high-profile guests and sponsors. They also helped organize merchandise in the fan shop, gaining insights into retail management and customer interaction, while they learn about pricing strategies and how promotions are communicated.

The participants engage fans by setting up activities in the fan zone and managing pre-game entertainment, enhancing the overall game-day atmosphere. They learned to use various digital tools for event management, including spreadsheets and social media and explored sponsorship placements and arena branding strategies.

To reinforce their learning, the interns documented their experiences in worksheets that covered literacy, digital skills, and emotional intelligence. The club general manager, Davor Užbinec, took some time to help the children with their working sheets and gave them some words of encouragement. The collaborative atmosphere made the interns feel welcome, motivating them to fully engage with their tasks. 

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="sl" dir="ltr">Teden, posvečen projektu <a href="https://twitter.com/OTEuroleague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OTEuroleague</a> še vedno poteka, zato nadaljujemo tam, kjer smo ostali!<br><br>V okviru našega projekta varovanci Mladinskega doma Malči Beličeve ne spoznavajo le košarkarske igre, temveč se naučijo tudi vse o organizaciji same košarkarske tekme. Tako so nam na… <a href="https://t.co/Grklgksf2Z">pic.twitter.com/Grklgksf2Z</a></p>&mdash; Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (@KKCedOL) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKCedOL/status/1879827182375117145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Building key competencies 

Beyond their direct responsibilities, the internship helped the children develop important competencies that will benefit them in any future career path: 

•	Reading literacy – They had to read and understand game-day instructions, event schedules, and guest lists, which helped improve their ability to process information quickly and accurately. 

•	Multilingualism – Since the club interacts with international players, officials, and sponsors, the interns were exposed to multiple languages. 

•	Mathematical & technological skills – From recording the number of spectators and drawing bar graphs to understanding how LED advertisements are programmed. 

•	Digital competence – Using email accounts professionally, responding to official messages, and navigating the club’s website for game-day details. 

•	Social & emotional learning – They reflected on the emotions they observed among staff members, including teamwork, stress management, and problem-solving. Also, they learned how to regulate emotions in a fast-paced work environment. 

•	Entrepreneurial thinking – Interns gained an understanding of sponsorship dynamics, including why certain brands receive more visibility, how advertisement timing is determined, and what factors influence ticket pricing. 

•	Cultural awareness – They explored the traditions of opposing teams, identifying symbols related to the city and country of the visiting team. 

"I never realized how much work goes into preparing a basketball game. It was fun setting up the fan zone, and I liked working with the team," said one of the Cedevita Olimpija interns. "I feel important when we help prepare the arena, I can sit next to the court and much more. I hope I will be able to work this kind of job one day.” 

### Investing in the next generation 

This internship program is more than just a short-term initiative. It’s an investment in the next generation of sports professionals, event organizers, and community leaders. By providing young people with an opportunity to engage with the club in a meaningful way, Cedevita hopes to inspire future careers in sports management, marketing, and event coordination, as they say: “Maybe one day, some of these interns will be the ones leading the next generation of One Team participants or working full-time with KK Cedevita Olimpija.”

This internship provided them with a comprehensive understanding of the behind-the-scenes operations of a professional basketball game, equipping them with valuable skills for future careers in sports management.

One Team internship program: Preparing future sport managers

Basketball not only fosters physical and mental well-being but also serves as a bridge for relationships. Dolomiti Energia Trento and Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius's latest initiative exemplifies this mission, creating a memorable and groundbreaking experience for people with disabilities, particularly those who are blind or visually impaired. 

Technology and innovation make basketball more inclusive

Basketball not only fosters physical and mental well-being but also serves as a bridge for relationships. [Dolomiti Energia Trento](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/dolomiti-energia-trento/trn/) and [Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/wolves-twinsbet-vilnius/wol/)'s latest initiative exemplifies this mission, creating a memorable and groundbreaking experience for people with disabilities, particularly those who are blind or visually impaired. 

Wolves's game versus Dreamland Gran Canaria was special for a large group of children and young people with hearing disabilities. During the game, a unique touch was added as the arena cube displayed a live interpreter translating the TV commentators’ play-by-play into sign language, making the game more accessible for the fans in the crowd. The initiative aims to spark interest in basketball among the deaf community, promote an active lifestyle, and enhance social inclusion through the sport. According to Titas Servutas, Wolves's One Team program manager, the project’s societal impact is undeniable: “Sometimes, we focus too much on the general population and overlook those whom life has treated unfairly. This program is specifically designed to help these individuals integrate into basketball, foster the growth of their community, and view the game from a fresh perspective."

More recently, on Tuesday, January 28, 2025, during the BKT EuroCup game between Trento and Wolves, Trento set the stage for an extraordinary event. Among the spectators, approximately 15 were blind or visually impaired fans who enjoyed the game in a way that had never been experienced before at Il T Quotidiano Arena. With the help of a dedicated radio commentary and the electrifying energy of the arena, these fans were fully immersed in the action of the game. For many of the visually impaired attendees, the event marked their first-ever live basketball game. This sentiment underscores the unique impact of the initiative, which proved that basketball is a sport for everyone, regardless of physical or sensory abilities. 

The success of this initiative has paved the way for its continuation. With the support of the Associazione Marcotti Osvaldo, Trento plans to replicate this inclusive experience in the upcoming games. The organization’s dedication to inclusion doesn’t stop here. "Through collaborations within our community and beyond, we strive to create a society that is more attentive on the field, in the arena, and in everyday life,“ stated Massimo Komatz, director of the Fondazione Aquila for Sport Trentino.  

These initiatives highlight the incredible potential of technology in enhancing accessibility and promoting inclusion in sports. By combining innovative tools, Trento and Wolves have set a benchmark for how sports can bring people together regardless of their physical or sensory abilities. Both teams' efforts demonstrate that basketball is more than just a game – it’s a vehicle for inclusion, empowerment, and connection.  

Trento and Wolves have made their games more accessible to fans

At LDLC ASVEL, basketball transcends the court – it’s a catalyst for fostering community, growth, and inclusion. The club treats everyone as part of a family, ensuring that young participants feel supported and valued on and off the court. It’s more than a game; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and empowerment.

ASVEL opened its arms to Benjamin as part of its One Team program

Euroleague Basketball’s 38 One Team programs are dedicated to using the power of basketball to make a positive impact in communities across Europe. [LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne/asv/)’s commitment to this mission is a shining example of how clubs can lead by example, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone, no matter their background, can thrive.

At ASVEL, basketball transcends the court – it’s a catalyst for fostering community, growth, and inclusion. The club treats everyone as part of a family, ensuring that young participants feel supported and valued on and off the court. It’s more than a game; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and empowerment.

In a compelling demonstration of how sport can inspire and unite, one of ASVEL’s young participants from the One Team program, Benjamin, received an exceptional opportunity. Benjamin had a very positive experience gaining confidence in himself and being able to communicate in English with the staff and players, overcoming his shyness, which he is very proud of: “The entire staff of the LDLC ASVEL pro team welcomed me warmly and was very kind to me."

This initiative highlights how ASVEL exemplifies the values of Euroleague Basketball’s One Team. “It’s a pleasure to share moments with guys as passionate as Benjamin," commented Pierre Poupet, ASVEL's first-team head coach. "They’re one of the reasons why we do this job, to create and share emotions. We were very proud and happy to help him come to practice, talk to us and experience everything from the inside. We need more Benjamins, and more moments like this." They will witness the dedication and effort of ASVEL’s top athletes up close and enjoy special interactions with several players, creating memories to last a lifetime.

This story reminds us of the transformative power of basketball and the vital role clubs play in shaping the future of our sport. 

He was able to gain confidence in himself and communicate in English with the staff and players

Euroleague Basketball’s One Team program and Motorola, in collaboration with One Team Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, are proud to announce a large “Bouncing for Good” initiative in Vitoria, to impact students from schools that are committed to support their community through diversity and promoting social justice and inclusion.

Motorola and One Team bring ‘Bouncing for Good’ initiative to Vitoria

Euroleague Basketball’s One Team program and Motorola, in collaboration with One Team Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, are proud to announce a large “Bouncing for Good” initiative in Vitoria, to impact students from schools that are committed to support their community through diversity and promoting social justice and inclusion.

This initiative aims to foster social inclusion, empower young people, and create positive change within the community through the power of basketball. Vitoria’s "Bouncing for Good" welcomes the new year, becoming the fourth project of this positive initiative from the One Team and Motorola partnership, after the successful previous stops in [Sopot](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/one-team/news/one-team-motorola-partnership-begins-with-community-events-in-sopot/), [Milan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/one-team/news/local-communities-in-milan-benefit-from-the-one-team-motorola-partnership/) and [Paris](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/one-team/news/motorola-and-one-teams-bouncing-for-good-brings-joy-to-young-people-in-paris/), always working hand-by-hand with the local clubs.

A member of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague since its inception, Baskonia has long been dedicated to community engagement and social responsibility, taking home two trophies at the One Team Awards in recent years.

The "Bouncing for Good" initiative in Vitoria tipped-off with a workshop and a session with Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz players Khalifa Diop and Nikos Rogkavopoulos, aimed at building teamwork, respect, and social responsibility through basketball.

Khalifa Diop, One Team Ambassador for Baskonia, is enthusiastic about the collaboration. "The partnership between One Team and Motorola is a powerful way to inspire young people and help them understand the importance of teamwork and social impact," said Diop. "Being part of this project is an incredible opportunity for students at Calasanz School, and I’m honored to support them on this journey." Diop commitment to One Team initiatives is such that he has enrolled his teammate and friend Nikolaos Rogkavopoulos, in supporting the "Bouncing for Good" initiative.

The students from Calasanz School – institution known for its focus on values such as solidarity, justice, peace, and respect for diversity – have participated in activities lead by Patricia Fernandez de Mendiola, a teacher from the school and the coach for Baskonia’s One Team program, who is leading the whole initiative that will also include a second activity during a One Team session with kids at risk of exclusion coming from the schools of Ibaiondo, Luis Elejalde, San Martin, Umandi, Odon de Apraiz and Aranbizkarra. With years of experience in school teaching and 4 years as a coach for the social projects with Baskonia, Patricia is excited to guide students with very diverse backgrounds in their journey of personal growth and community engagement through the "Bouncing for Good" initiative.

These activations with the various groups will be followed with basketballs donations for the participants and institutions thanks to Motorola’s support with a total of 400 basketballs being donated to the students participating in the activations and to the schools collaborating in the initiative.

Motorola, a key partner in this project, also celebrates the partnership. "We are proud to support the 'Bouncing for Good' initiative alongside Euroleague Basketball and One Team Baskonia’s network of schools’ collaborations", said Clara Borrás, Motorola’s Marketing Director for Iberia. "This program is a great example of how education, sport, and inclusion can come together to create positive change in the community."

Motorola and One Team bring 'Bouncing for Good' initiative to Vitoria

The 2025 edition of the One Team Games is in the books! Between January 14 to 17, the 38 clubs in the Euroleague Basketball family celebrated the One Team Games at a combined 28 games across the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and BKT EuroCup, spreading the One Team mantra across the continent. Unforgettable memories were made, connections were strengthened with the club's ambassadors, and everybody united as one – because #WeAreAllOneTeam.

The 2025 One Team Games was once again a roaring success!

Get ready for the celebration of all things One Team, Euroleague Basketball’s social responsibility program, as the One Team Games take center stage across the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and BKT EuroCup from January 14 to 17, 2025.

The return of the One Team Games!

Get ready for the celebration of all things One Team, Euroleague Basketball’s social responsibility program, as the [One Team Games](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1a5RMjsHXBI) take center stage across the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and BKT EuroCup from January 14 to 17, 2025.

 

Taking place between Rounds 21 and 22 of the EuroLeague, and Round 15 of the EuroCup, the One Team Games puts the spotlight on the 38 clubs’ communities and the hundreds of participants who are at risk of social exclusion all over Europe. This year’s One Team programs have focused on the United Nations’s Sustainable Development Goal 10 by aiming to reduce inequalities in our communities through basketball.

 

In order to make the games extra special, there will be a number of different activations that take place before and during the 18 EuroLeague contests and 10 EuroCup fixtures.

 

Prior to tipoff, the One Team participants of the home team will head onto the court for a family picture featuring the One Team Ambassadors from both clubs. One participant from the home team’s One Team program will bring the game ball to the officials before the action gets underway, too.

 

At halftime, there will be some One Team activities – the type that the participants do on a weekly basis in their One Team sessions – in front of the crowd, who will be there showing support.

 

Fans in the arena and viewers at home will see special #WeAreAllOneTeam stickers on the EuroLeague and EuroCup teams’ courts during the One Team Games, with Turkish Airlines and BKT – the naming partners of the EuroLeague and EuroCup, respectively – actively supporting the celebration

 

It is not just on the EuroLeague and EuroCup courts where the #WeAreAllOneTeam hashtag will be prominent, as One Team Ambassadors, players, clubs and fans are all encouraged to participate in the One Team Games by sharing the hashtag on social media. Speaking of which, [One Team has launched its own Instagram account](https://www.instagram.com/euroleagueoneteam/) in order to raise awareness of the clubs’ One Team programs and giving more visibility to the excellent work conducted by the EuroLeague and EuroCup clubs in their communities. Just like in previous years, there will be a special filter that clubs and One Team Ambassadors are encouraged to use for their social media accounts, too.

 

Fans can also take part in a special [Image Trivia game](https://euroleague.tbits.me/tb_app/516965) by scanning a QR code in the arena and also on social media. Those who take part in this game will get to recognize and know more about some of the One Team Ambassadors from this season, while anyone who plays the game will have the chance to win a jersey of their favorite EuroLeague or EuroCup player.

 

"The One Team Games are an opportunity for all of us to come together to celebrate the excellent work done by the Euroleague Basketball clubs in their One Team programs, while also raising awareness about these at-risk communities and individuals," said Abigail Martin, Director of Sustainability and Development Projects at Euroleague Basketball. "It is fantastic to see the awareness that the One Team Games provide, and especially all of the participants' smiling faces. Only together can we affect positive change. We are so, so thankful for everyone's efforts in making the One Team Games possible."

 

“One Team bridges gaps by uniting people of different backgrounds and abilities through a shared passion for basketball,” said Olympiacos Piraeus forward and One Team Ambassador [Shaquielle McKissic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shaquielle-mckissic/007853/). “By uplifting marginalized groups – like individuals with disabilities and displaced immigrants – it sends a powerful message that no one is alone. I’ve personally witnessed how this sense of belonging and collective responsibility extends far beyond the court.”

 

“Working with One Team allows us to get closer to our communities and show that we are there to support them, whatever the circumstances,” said [Nate Sestina](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/nathan-sestina/011980/), Valencia Basket forward and One Team Ambassador. “Seeing the smiles on the faces of the people involved in our One Team program, it makes it all worth it. Ultimately, we are all one big family – regardless of background, disability, where we come from – and we are there to help one another. Through One Team, we can make a real difference to these individuals.”

 

One Team, supported by Turkish Airlines as the One Team Founding Patron and with the collaboration of Special Olympics as Proud Partner, uses basketball to achieve real social impact in our communities. With an innovative model of interconnectedness across an entire continent, Euroleague Basketball and its clubs have developed a complete CSR program that brings together activities from each team in an integrated, impactful way, working under the theme of "community integration" that actively addresses targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10 on Reduced Inequalities.

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2025-01-14T19:00:00.000Z)

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v Olympiacos Piraeus (2025-01-14T19:30:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v ALBA Berlin (2025-01-14T19:30:00.000Z)

Paris Basketball v Anadolu Efes Istanbul (2025-01-14T19:30:00.000Z)

Real Madrid v Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (2025-01-14T19:45:00.000Z)

Zalgiris Kaunas v Virtus Segafredo Bologna (2025-01-15T18:00:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (2025-01-15T19:00:00.000Z)

FC Barcelona v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2025-01-15T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Bayern Munich v AS Monaco (2025-01-15T19:30:00.000Z)

LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne v ALBA Berlin (2025-01-16T19:00:00.000Z)

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2025-01-16T19:30:00.000Z)

Paris Basketball v Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv (2025-01-16T19:30:00.000Z)

Real Madrid v Olympiacos Piraeus (2025-01-16T19:45:00.000Z)

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul v Zalgiris Kaunas (2025-01-17T17:45:00.000Z)

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade v AS Monaco (2025-01-17T19:00:00.000Z)

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2025-01-17T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Bayern Munich v Virtus Segafredo Bologna (2025-01-17T19:30:00.000Z)

FC Barcelona v Anadolu Efes Istanbul (2025-01-17T19:45:00.000Z)

7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys v Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (2025-01-16T17:30:00.000Z)

Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul v Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius (2025-01-14T17:00:00.000Z)

7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys v Valencia Basket (2025-01-14T17:00:00.000Z)

Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem v Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana (2025-01-14T18:00:00.000Z)

Dolomiti Energia Trento v ratiopharm Ulm (2025-01-14T19:00:00.000Z)

Turk Telekom Ankara v Veolia Towers Hamburg (2025-01-15T16:30:00.000Z)

Trefl Sopot v Bahcesehir College Istanbul (2025-01-15T18:00:00.000Z)

Buducnost VOLI Podgorica v Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv (2025-01-15T18:00:00.000Z)

Aris Midea Thessaloniki v Cosea JL Bourg-en-Bresse (2025-01-15T18:00:00.000Z)

Umana Reyer Venice v U-BT Cluj-Napoca (2025-01-15T19:00:00.000Z)

Dreamland Gran Canaria v Joventut Badalona (2025-01-15T20:00:00.000Z)

After the successful events put on in Poland and Italy in collaboration with Trefl Sopot and EA7 Emporio Armani Milan, respectively, Euroleague Basketball’s One Team and Motorola teamed up with Paris Basketball to organize yet another special day on December 18 at Campus Île-de-France Sport dans la Ville in Pantin, Paris, to deliver 400 basketballs to not only the young people from the Sport dans la Ville association that participated in the sport and life values workshop delivered last December 10 by One Team in association with Motorola, but also to local public schools and Paris Basketball One Team program.

Motorola and One Team’s “Bouncing for Good” brings joy to young people in Paris

After the successful events put on in [Poland](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/one-team/news/one-team-motorola-partnership-begins-with-community-events-in-sopot/) and [Italy](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/one-team/news/local-communities-in-milan-benefit-from-the-one-team-motorola-partnership/) in collaboration with Trefl Sopot and EA7 Emporio Armani Milan, respectively, Euroleague Basketball’s One Team and Motorola teamed up with [Paris Basketball](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/paris-basketball/prs/) to organize yet another special day on December 18 at Campus Île-de-France Sport dans la Ville in Pantin, Paris, to deliver 400 basketballs to not only the young people from the Sport dans la Ville association that participated in the sport and life values workshop delivered last December 10 by One Team in association with Motorola, but also to local public schools and Paris Basketball One Team program.

With the presence of  women’s first-team player Touty Gandega, 50 enthusiastic children aged 9 to 13 from Sport dans la Ville received their new basketballs and exhibited the “perfect ball” they created the previous week during a workshop.

These children come from some of the most socially disadvantaged areas of Paris, and through this donation, they will have the tools to continue their passion for sport and develop life skills that support their personal growth and future opportunities.

Amara Sy, Paris Basketball One Team ambassador: “As a former player and as Sports Director of Paris Basketball, I pay a great deal of attention to the One Team program. I've been its ambassador for the past 3 years. As a young person who grew up in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, I know just how empowering it is to have a basketball. Today, with Motorola and the EuroLeague, I'm very happy that we can offer 400 balls to all these children.”

“This initiative embodies our commitment to empowering young people through sports and technology,” said **Daniela Idi, EMEA Marketing Director at Motorola**. “By collaborating with Paris Basketball and Sport dans la Ville, we aim to create opportunities for growth, inspire dreams, and provide tools to help these students achieve their goals.”

The Sport dans la Ville association plays a critical role in providing young people from these disadvantaged neighborhoods with the tools to succeed, both on and off the court. Through the power of sport, they instill core values such as teamwork, perseverance, and discipline that help the children build confidence, open doors to professional opportunities, and pursue their dreams. The “Bouncing for Good” initiative is aligned with this mission, strengthening the collaboration between Euroleague Basketball and Motorola, and in this case Paris Basketball, to give these youngsters the confidence and support they need to thrive.

In addition, the program will continue on December 19, during the Paris Basketball vs. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul game at Adidas Arena in Round 17 as a young participant from Sport dans la Ville will present the “perfect ball” to the 8,000 fans in attendance, highlighting the creative and empowering journey these children have embarked on. The “perfect ball” is the result of the kids’ collective effort to think express their thoughts and ideas about sports and life values painted in a real basketball.

This initiative also serves as the first chapter in a long-term partnership between Euroleague Basketball, Motorola, and Sport dans la Ville. Every year, this collaboration will support hundreds of young people, enriching Paris Basketball’s One Team program and fostering new connections, including meetings between these young participants and refugee minors in the club’s One Team program. Through sport, they will continue to bridge gaps, forge lasting friendships, and offer hope for a brighter future.

With its focus on community, empowerment, and sustainable change, “Bouncing for Good” is more than a donation – it's an investment in the future of Paris's youth, fostering the next generation of leaders, athletes, and dreamers.

One Team, Euroleague Basketball's social responsibility program, and Motorola have come together for a meaningful initiative called “Bouncing for Good” to support young students and promote the values of sport, teamwork, and inclusion. The second event of this collaboration — after the first event in Sopot, Poland — took part in Milan, Italy, in partnership with EA7 Emporio Armani Milan. This collaboration benefitted 150 children, along with additional donations to their schools and local entities associated to One Team.

Local communities in Milan benefit from the One Team-Motorola partnership

One Team, Euroleague Basketball's social responsibility program, and Motorola have come together for a meaningful initiative called “Bouncing for Good” to support young students and promote the values of sport, teamwork, and inclusion. The second event of this collaboration — after the first event in Sopot, Poland — took part in Milan, Italy, in partnership with [EA7 Emporio Armani Milan](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/ea7-emporio-armani-milan/mil/). This collaboration benefitted 150 children, along with additional donations to their schools and local entities associated to One Team.

The initiative kicked off with a two-day workshop held on November 12 and November 14, 2024, at the Istituto Comprensivo Arcadia in Milan. The workshops, which took place from 10:00 to 12:00 each day, brought together eight classes of 20 students each (a total of 150 children). The sessions were led by the One Team coaches from the EA7 Emporio Armani Milan club and were designed to inspire and empower young minds, fostering life skills through sports and positive social engagement.

The first day saw Milan first-team player [Giampaolo Ricci](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/giampaolo-ricci/001518/) surprise the children connecting through video call for the event before Ricci’s teammate [Ousmane Diop](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ousmane-diop/013385/) brought more smiles to the children’s faces on the second day with yet another dream videocall for the kids.

This very positive social initiative was thanks to the great support of Motorola, which expanded on the sport and life values that EA7 Emporio Armani Milan’s One Team program delivers in its community in association with Laureus Sport for Good Italia. The children were able to learn about the values of teamwork, respect, and resilience, while these workshops align with One Team’s broader mission to enhance social integration through the universal language of sport.

A donation event took place on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 9:30 to 10:30, in the same school where the workshops took place, with the participation of representatives from Euroleague Basketball, Motorola and EA7 Emporio Armani Milan and the presence of the students and Milan players [Shavon Shields](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/shavon-shields/007831/), Giampaolo Ricci and Ousmane Diop, this time in person. The event included the introduction of a unique basketball designed by the school children during the workshops and replicated in a real basketball for the children and the school to keep along with a selfie photo from the EA7 Emporio Armani Milan team, signed by all players. Also thanks to Motorola, all 150 students received a basketball and another 250 basketballs will be donated to public schools and entities in need, including those involved in the One Team program. This generous gesture will help expand access to sports equipment and encourage physical activity among students, furthering the shared mission of Euroleague Basketball and Motorola to make a positive contribution in local communities.

"Sharing the passion for sports with these young students was truly special," said Ricci. "Events like this show how basketball can unite and teach valuable lessons."

"It was amazing to spend the morning with the students of the Arcadia Institute in Gratosoglio," stated Shields. "I hope that through basketball, we’ve inspired them to follow their dreams."

"Seeing the enthusiasm of the kids was incredible," added Diop. "I hope this experience motivates them to believe in themselves."

This collaborative initiative, powered by Motorola, demonstrates their ongoing commitment to fostering social values through sport. The partnership with the One Team program reflects a shared vision of creating lasting change through sport, supporting the community Milan supports as a club. In collaboration with Laureus Sport for Good, the One Team project helps instill the core values of teamwork, resilience, and community engagement in the next generation.

Being in prison is never easy, especially at a young age. For one 20-year-old inmate at the General Directorate of the Juvenile Penitentiary Centre (CPJ), FC Barcelona and its One Team program has helped play a key role in his personal growth.

A One Team success story: FC Barcelona

Being in prison is never easy, especially at a young age. For one 20-year-old inmate at the General Directorate of the Juvenile Penitentiary Centre (CPJ), FC Barcelona and its One Team program has helped play a key role in his personal growth.

During a two-year stint in prison, this individual was able to take advantage of the One Team sessions put on by Barcelona. While he had problems when it came to controlling his emotions, particularly anger, at the start of the process, two years on he is now a far more caring, understanding person who is now a part of society.

Just a couple of years ago, the attitude problems he dealt with often led to confrontations with many people, including his colleagues, i.e. the fellow inmates taking part in the sessions, the professionals and, at times, even the officials during the activities. When playing basketball, he would become nervous and verbally abuse his teammates and the teacher, so a challenge was set for him to begin to internalize the values that he was learning through both basketball and the One Team program. These, of course, relate to teamwork and respect, as well as a positive attitude, perseverance and showing an effort to improve as an individual.

Notably, he never stopped participating in the One Team sessions and was one of the most consistent attendees. Over time, his regular presence led to him becoming an important part of the group and a reference point for others, with his motivation and desire to help others seeing him become a role model. By taking part in so many sessions, he was able to generate a closer bond with the educator and actively helped when it came to the management and preparation of the training material. What’s more, the change in his attitude saw him begin to express his feelings and show gratitude for the project, while he even stepped in as a mediator in any conflicts.

Through his active participation in the project, he was able to develop his communication and emotional management skills, which in turn had a positive impact in his ability to control his anger and annoyance. Before, he admits that he would take that frustration with him out onto the street. By working on his patience and empathy, two skills he struggled with at the beginning of his involvement in the One Team sessions, he put himself on a good path that has aided him in his later return to society.

Having internalized the One Team methodology and become a role model for the group, he has shown that perseverance and hard work truly pays off. The others were able to see how he used sports to positively build his personal development and escape from reality in a stress-relieving activity, so long as the right attitude is applied. He is now out of prison after gaining his freedom in progressive steps, having had scheduled outings before returning to the center until the end of his sentence.

Importantly, he expressed gratitude and stated that the One Team sessions allowed him to focus during his time in prison, while also giving him the tools to reach his personal ambitions and learn valuable lessons, which he will carry during this new opportunity he has been given.

Through its One Team program, Barcelona, alongside its Foundation and the General Directorate of the Juvenile Penitentiary Centre (CPJ), worked with 15 to 20 men aged between 18 and 24. The goal of the program was to use basketball as a tool for education and learning values, which these individuals could then take with them as they look to reenter society and gain future employment.

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