A Lions Roar Of Support: Professional Basketball Players
Take A Stand With NextGen Neighbor Network
Yesterday, the Fyllingen Lions stepped onto the court focused on moving forward in the national finals, but also as leaders of a movement that has caught Bergen’s attention. In front of a packed crowd, the Fyllingen Lions tipped off against the Kongsberg Miners in a nail biting match that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Yet before the first whistle, the Fyllingen Lions made it clear that this night wasn’t just about basketball. As the lights dimmed and the music went up for player introductions, the entire Fyllingen Lions roster emerged wearing bold blue NextGen Neighbor Network (NNN) t-shirts, while holding the hands of some of their youngest fans. This was a visual and vocal commitment to NextGenNeighbor Network initiative, along with a sign of gratitude to their top sponsor, Meteva Sport og Helse who is also fully supporting the movement. Wearing the t-shirts were a respectful symbol of their team’s stance against youth crime, drug abuse, isolation, and bullying. The arena responded with applause as the NNN logo also appeared on screens along the court throughout the game.
"This isn’t only about winning a game tonight," said Bouna Black Ndiaye of the Fyllingen Lions. "It’s a moment of urgency for our youth. The Lions stand for connection, care, and adult accountability." The statement rang loud as the Lions Guard/Forward and Co-Founder of NextGen Neighbor Network stood tall and united with his dedicated teammates.
In a time where so many young people in Bergen are navigating difficult choices and environments, the Fyllingen Lions sent a powerful message: “We see you. We’re here. And we’ve only just begun.”
A Call To Action
NextGen Neighbor Network (NNN) is a collaborative initiative between schools, sports clubs, culture, parents, and local businesses and organizations in a designated local area. Our goal is to create a support system of mutual responsibility and accountability for children and youth, based on existing rules and regulations, Municipal code of conduct and local ordinance. Together, we seek to ADDRESS, REPORT, and REPAIR challenges simultaneously to reduce and diminish repercussions for the children and youth. Each local area may have an appointed and designated “Miljøarbeider” and several ambassadors. We seek to prevent snitching, bullying, violence, drugs and crime. THROUGH OPEN AND RELIABLE DIALOGUE, we aim to prevent issues from escalating across all the various areas children navigate.
This Spring/Summer, 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.
Previously on the 2nd April 2025, SK Brann and Meteva Sport og Helse AS successfully launched the NextGen Neighbor Network (NNN) with its first pilot project Miljoplakaten Tertnes at Tertnes Clubhouse.
Peter Bullock Honored at Center Court
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 as an active BLNO player, 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.
A Roar Of Support
As the final buzzer sounded and the scoreboard froze in time, it was clear that: something far greater than points had been scored tonight. The Fyllingen Lions had won the game with a score of 61-59, and once again won the hearts of their young fans. From center court to community corners, that Fyllingen Lions roar and bold NextGen Neighbor Network moment will continue to echo.
The NextGen Neighbor Network is a promise, and like any true Lions' roar - it's meant to be heard, felt, and followed.
