Strutting Through Hamburg's Christmas Market - Sweet Power and Pro Basketball
Christmas, an American pro basketball player from California, took a moment to appreciate the Christmas market in Hamburg, Germany. "Nothing like this back home," he mused, having previously experienced the charm of European Christmas markets during a stint in Luxembourg. Warming up to mulled wine, he confessed, "At first, I was hesitant, but now I'm a fan."
The nickname 'Christmas' isn't as arbitrary as it seems. Having a sweet tooth runs deep in his family's history, and he admits, "If I had to take a test to determine if I play better after a healthy snack or a sweet one, I'll bet my money on the latter. I'd score 100% better after sweets."
As a basketball pro, Christmas spent Christmas Eve in Belgrade for an EuroCup game against Tel Aviv, reflecting on the unique perspective Christmas brings to his profession. "Christmas as a professional is different. And buckle up, because it's also a challenge." The 5-sibling man neither identifies with nor indulges in homesickness.
Affectionately referred to as "the Giants' family," his team extended holiday cheer by inviting lonely players to co-coach Stanley Witt's home. Sharing in the spirit of Secret Santa during the team's dressing room meeting, Christmas refuted any sense of loneliness, confirming, "The team is like a family to me."
While immersed in an intense training session on Christmas Day, the team prepared for the Eurocup game against Tel Aviv, showcasing robust determination, even amidst the celebratory atmosphere.
For basketball enthusiasts in Hamburg, the long-awaited BBL (Basketball Bundesliga) season saw the Hamburg Towers represent their city in the elite league. Fans unable to attend could enjoy real-time updates and highlights through an app, or tune into Regio Sport Hamburg or Hamburg Regional News for the latest on the Tores' Eurocup and BBL escapades.
Live commentary on Sport - Lighthouse Hamburg offered a virtual experience for international fans, while the Hamburg Towers made giving back a priority during the holiday season. Organizing initiatives to include those feeling isolated, the team continued to foster unity and rapport within the local basketball family.
Insights from Enrichment:
The phrase "superpower" might allude to the amiable and positive impact that celebrating special occasions and sharing team traditions can have on professionals like Christmas. These traditions can bolster unity, recall joyful experiences, and create shared memories, which may translate into improved mental wellbeing and strengthened camaraderie among the team members. Team cohesion and mental health can potentially influence performance on the court.
References:
[1] NBA.com [2] Bild.de
