United by basketball: Cedevita Olimpija, Reyer join forces at the One Team Games

Building on a successful joint collaboration in the past, the two clubs’ One Team programs came together once again to celebrate the One Team Games

Basketball has a way of creating connections that go far beyond the court, and the One Team Games once again showed just how powerful those connections can be. During the 2026 edition, Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana and Umana Reyer Venice came together for a special international activation that brought participants from two countries – 15 from Cedevita Olimpija and 17 from Reyer – together through a shared love of the game.

The collaboration builds on a relationship that began in previous seasons. During the 2023-24 campaign, One Team participants from Cedevita Olimpija’s program traveled to Italy to attend the BKT EuroCup game between the two clubs and take part in a joint basketball session. That experience set the foundation for a partnership rooted in learning, exchange and togetherness.

This year, that spirit continued on Wednesday, January 28, when Cedevita Olimpija’s One Team participants traveled to be part of the event. From their arrival at the arena, the focus was on meeting new people, sharing experiences and feeling included in the game-day atmosphere. Participants from both clubs connected through joint activities and interactions with club staff and players, creating moments that were both exciting and meaningful.

“In an increasingly global world, where cultures and languages mix, I believe it is important to show children what the world has to offer,” said Samo Gabersek, One Team Manager for Cedevita Olimpija. “This is a crucial part of their development, learning, and expanding their horizons.

“When we organize sessions with another club, the children learn how important teamwork is and how to function as one team. They cannot rely on language alone, so they must find alternative ways to communicate. At the same time, they step out of their comfort zone—leaving home and experiencing a completely new environment.”

The most powerful moment came at halftime, when all participants stepped onto the court together. Standing side by side in front of the crowd, they shared a moment that symbolized unity, respect and belonging, capturing a group photo that reflected the true essence of One Team. It was a reminder that basketball can be a space where everyone belongs.

“These initiatives allow participants to experience new realities and meet new people,” said Roberta Meneghel, One Team Manager for Reyer. “It shows them that they have unique opportunities and that we are all one team, regardless of where we come from or which club we support.”

This event captured the heart of this year’s One Team motto, “The Power of a Team.” The collaboration between Cedevita Olimpija and Reyer showed what can be achieved through collective effort – from the weeks of preparation behind the scenes to the shared experience on the court. Together, they demonstrated that teamwork is not only about winning games, but about creating opportunities, building confidence and overcoming challenges that no one could face alone.