The Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius vs. Dreamland Gran Canaria game was special for a large group of children and youth with hearing disabilities.

In collaboration with the EuroLeague and the Lithuanian Deaf Sports Committee, the club is implementing the "One Team" program this season. The initiative aims to spark interest in basketball among the deaf community, promote an active lifestyle, and enhance social inclusion through the sport.

Last week's EuroCup round was dedicated to "One Team" activities. Although the Wolves were playing in Istanbul at the time, they chose to showcase the program during their next home game in Vilnius.

“This season, we are working with hearing-impaired children, enjoying times in the gym together with brothers Lavrinovič, Kristupas Žemaitis, and Rimantas Kaukėnas, who have joined us in these efforts as well. Last week was One Team week, but since we were playing on the road, we decided to celebrate that occasion today,” project leader Titas Servutas said about the event’s highlights.

During the game against the visitors, children with hearing impairments escorted the players onto the court during team introductions. Additionally, a unique touch was added as the arena cube displayed a live interpreter translating the TV commentators’ play-by-play into sign language, making the game more accessible to the audience.

This unique approach to game commentary for the deaf community in the arena also impressed the EuroLeague organization.

“We are super proud of a few activities you did, and we are planning how to showcase it to a wider audience. I'm talking about the sign language interpreter in the cube which is also something that has never been done before!” wrote Kristers Pukitis, one of the program’s coordinators, in a letter to the club.

During the game, children supporting the Vilnius team had the chance to play basketball on the court during halftime, testing the arena’s rims and enjoying the atmosphere. After the game, they went backstage to meet, take photos, and get autographs from the Wolves players, who celebrated an important victory.

According to Titas Servutas, the project’s societal impact is undeniable.

“Sometimes, we focus too much on the general population and overlook those whom life has treated unfairly. This program is specifically designed to help these individuals integrate into basketball, foster the growth of their community, and view the game from a fresh perspective,” added Servutas.

(Photo by Elvis Žaldaris)