For 17-year-old Evert Dahlberg, basketball has been a defining sport since he was 12 years old when he first started in Fyllingsdalen. With a drive to master the game and the unwavering support of his family and role models, Evert is a rising star in Norwegian basketball.

Evert’s basketball journey began under unique circumstances. During the COVID-19 pandemic, in the final year of primary school, he and his friends would spend their breaks shooting hoops at Sælen Oppveksttun. What started as casual games soon turned into a passion, leading him to join Fyllingen Basket—a decision that would shape his future.

Support From Family,  Role Models & Community

Evert is proud to be part of a growing basketball movement that is on the rise within Bergen. He credits organizations like Basketakademiet. Basketakademiet is a pioneering collaboration among basketball clubs in Western Norway, united by a shared vision to strengthen the sport for the younger generation. The academy provides a high-quality, low-barrier basketball camp for children and youth to develop their skills under the guidance of Bergen’s most experienced coaches. Four times a year, during school breaks, girls and boys born 2009 - 2016 are offered a four day camp. For special talents like Evert, the Basketakademiet offers player development programs in close collaboration with the local clubs. 

Evert’s journey in basketball is also fueled by the support of his family and the inspiration of his role models. He holds deep gratitude for Fyllingen Lions players and Basketakademiet role models, Lars Espe, Bouna Black N’Diaye, and Karamo Jawara, who lead by example both on and off the court. For him, basketball is part of his family’s identity. His parents have been by his side every step of the way, traveling with him to international tournaments like the Nordic Championship in Finland and the European Championship in North Macedonia. Their presence has been a source of strength and motivation.

"It means so much to me to have their support. Knowing they believe in me 100% pushes me to work even harder every day," Evert says.

The love for basketball runs in the family. His younger brother, Amund, who is 7 years old,  is already following in his footsteps, playing for Fyllingen’s youngest team. This deep-rooted connection to the club is what makes Fyllingen feel like home.

"It’s amazing to see so many parents, siblings, and friends at our games, cheering us on. Having that kind of support means everything—it creates a special atmosphere and pushes us to give our best," he adds.

A Rising Star

Evert has represented Norway’s youth national teams at the Under-16 level, participating in both the Nordic Championships and the European B Championships. Now, at just 17 years old, Evert has already been included in the Norwegian Basketball Federation’s Under-18 watchlist. This recognition highlights his development, skills, and his potential to make a significant impact within the sport. 

Training Routine

Evert's commitment to basketball is evident in his training schedule. Every week, he juggles nine basketball sessions (three with U17/U19, four with BLNO, and two with his school team at Metis), strength training to complement his on-court development, and balancing rest and recovery to manage workload effectively.

A typical day for Evert starts with a morning school practice, followed by classes, and then an evening training session. With a busy schedule, he prioritizes BLNO training, ensuring he is constantly pushing himself at the highest level.

When asked about his playing style, Evert describes himself as a strong driver, always looking to attack the basket. Coaches and teammates often praise his leadership qualities and his ability to lift those around him. With true sportsmanship, he is also aware of the areas he needs to improve.

"I’m working on my shooting and becoming more comfortable using my right hand in game situations. I appreciate the clear feedback from my coaches at Fyllingen and the U16 national team. They push me to take my game to the next level," he says.

Future Dreams

Evert has big ambitions for his basketball career. Already recognized on the Norwegian Basketball Federation’s U18 watchlist, he hopes to continue representing Norway at the junior level and eventually make the senior national team.

"I want to play at a high level in college and, ultimately, compete professionally. Being on the watchlist is a great honor, and it motivates me to work even harder," he says.

Evert Dahlberg is well on his way to achieving his dreams. As he continues to develop his skills and take on new challenges, one thing is certain—the basketball community will be cheering him on every step of the way.