Berlin was abuzz with excitement for the 2024 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four, with FBL Berlin – ‘one of the largest inclusive basketball clubs in Germany and Europe,’ as it describes itself – doing its part to help develop interest in basketball in the German capital and introduce people to the sport.
Ten years ago, FBL Berlin was founded – and it has been on an upwards trajectory ever since. Having started with eight teams, there are now 56 teams and over 1,000 basketball players competing across four different leagues. The city of Berlin has helped FBL Berlin continue its growth, too, by providing gyms to play at.
In addition to providing an inclusive basketball environment where everyone is welcome, regardless of ability, race or background, FBL Berlin has also set up programs that have seen a real-life impact in society. For example, over the last 10 years, FBL Berlin has helped over 100 refugees train to become referees in the FBL but also for the German Basketball Federation.
‘Only in the FBL is it possible for parents and their children to play together in the same team,’ says the FBL Berlin website. ‘We integrate people with intellectual disabilities into our regular training and games.’
As FBL Berlin spokesperson Joe Duss explains, the club looks to bring people together and build a basketball community by spreading love through the city and with people from all around the world. There are big plans ahead for FBL Berlin, so if you are seeking a new place to play basketball in a non-judgmental environment, this is the place for you.