As the lights dimmed before player introductions, Fyllingen Lions made a powerful statement. The entire team entered wearing blue t-shirts featuring the NextGen Neighbor Network (NNN) logo – a clear message that this night was about more than just basketball.

This was a visual and vocal show of support for the NextGen Neighbor Network, as well as a heartfelt thanks to the main sponsor, Meteva Sport og Helse AS, the non-profit behind NNN.

Applause echoed through the arena as the NNN logo also appeared on screens around the court. It stood as a strong symbol of the team’s stance against youth crime, substance abuse, isolation, and bullying – and a clear call to action:
sports can be a tool to build safety, community, and hope.

What is NNN?

NextGen Neighbor Network, a collaborative effort that brings together schools, sports clubs, cultural organizations, and responsible adults in a designated area to address, report, and resolve challenges that affect children and young people. With a particular focus on preventing snitching, bullying, violence, drug abuse and crime, we aim to, THROUGH OPEN AND RELIABLE DIALOGUE, to prevent issues from escalating, foster trust and promote proactive solutions.

On the 4th June 2025, NNN will launch its second pilot project: Miljøplakaten Sandslihallen, in collaboration with Ytrebygda Basketball Club, Gneist Handball, Turn, Football, ISB, and surrounding schools. Several community figures and professional athletes will be attending. NNN will be releasing more details on the event in the coming weeks.

Peter Bullock – A True Hero Honored

Before the national anthem, another moving moment was spent recognizing a local legend whose legacy stretches far beyond basketball. His name is Peter Bullock.

Marking 20 years in Norwegian basketball, Bullock—an American-born player who’s become a beloved Bergen figure was honored for his legendary basketball career and his tireless commitment to youth development. As the announcer told his story, a touching moment unfolded, a wave of young children from Peter’s Hjellestad and Ytrebygda teams ran onto the court, handing him colorful, handmade drawings and messages. Their smiles and proud hugs said more than any stat sheet ever could.

Final 3: Victory in the Final Second!

After the heartfelt start, it was game time – and what a game it turned out to be.

Fyllingen Lions hosted Kongsberg Miners for the third final in the BLNO playoffs, delivering a thriller with an ending that could hardly have been scripted better. The score was 59–59 with 1.7 seconds left. Then Lars Mensah Espe delivered a perfect pass to Joel Kanyinda, who soared and dunked in the winning points – sending the 1,157 fans in the arena into an explosive celebration: 61–59 to Fyllingen!

Kongsberg had led by 10 points near the end of the third quarter, but Fyllingen showed strength and championship mentality in a physical and intense game, winning the final quarter 12–4.

With a 2–1 lead in the best-of-five series, Fyllingen Lions now head to Kongsberghallen on Thursday at 19:00 with the chance to secure the national championship gold.