Building the Future: The Löwen’s Academy and Youth Programs

The Löwen’s philosophy is rooted in the motto jungwildhungrig—young, wild, and hungry—a reflection of their commitment to nurturing talent from a young age. The club’s academy is designed to develop German players, with a clear focus on turning raw talent into future Bundesliga stars.

At the heart of this mission is the LöwenZukunft initiative, which combines basketball with education and social responsibility. The club partners with local organizations like the AWO Braunschweig and SG FT/MTV Braunschweig to offer programs for children and youth, ensuring that basketball remains accessible and engaging for all.

One of their most impactful programs is LöwenSchule, which operates 25 school-based basketball after-school programs across 22 schools in Braunschweig. According to Löwen-Geschäftsführer Nils Mittmann, these programs are not just about developing talent but also about fostering a love for the sport and promoting physical activity among young people.

„Unsere Aufgabe als Bundesliga-Club besteht nicht nur darin, den Fokus auf unser Erstliga-Team zu legen. Wir sehen unsere Verantwortung vor allem auch darin, Kinder und Jugendliche zu bewegen und ihnen Spaß am Sport zu vermitteln.“

Nils Mittmann, Löwen-Geschäftsführer

The results speak for themselves: the Löwen’s academy has become a breeding ground for young German players, with several graduates now playing in the Bundesliga and beyond.

A Club for All Ages: Löwen’s Social Impact

The Löwen’s reach extends far beyond the court. Recognizing the alarming statistics that 84% of children in Germany move less than one hour per day (according to WHO standards), the club has launched initiatives to combat youth inactivity.

In 2023, the Löwen introduced LöwenKita, a program aimed at preschoolers, and expanded their LöwenSchule initiative to ensure that children from an early age have access to structured sports activities. These programs are not just about basketball—they’re about instilling discipline, teamwork, and healthy habits.

the Löwen’s Spieltagscamps offer a unique blend of basketball and education for youth aged 12 to 26. These camps, held in conjunction with home games, provide participants with the opportunity to watch professional basketball up close while engaging in their own training sessions. The program has been so successful that it continues into the 2025/26 season, with expanded offerings and new partnerships.

For older fans and corporate teams, the Charity Cup provides a platform for fun, competition, and community support. Held annually at the Volkswagen Halle, the event raises funds for local causes while bringing together fans of all ages.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: The Löwen’s Training Ground

The Löwen’s commitment to excellence is reflected in their facilities. In 2024, the club secured a new training center in Braunschweig, a project funded by the city with an investment of 1.45 million euros. The former Badmintonhalle at the Play-off-Sportkomplex has been transformed into a state-of-the-art training facility, complete with two full basketball courts and modern training equipment.

This new home allows the Löwen to offer top-tier training conditions for their professional team and academy players alike. The facility also serves as a hub for community programs, further solidifying the club’s role as a central pillar of Braunschweig’s sporting infrastructure.

The Volkswagen Halle, with a capacity of 4,200 spectators, remains the heart of the Löwen’s home games. Located in the heart of Braunschweig’s Bürgerpark, the arena is more than just a venue—it’s a gathering place for the city’s basketball community.

A Team with Heart: The Löwen’s Journey in the Bundesliga

Founded in 2001 as Metabox Braunschweig, the Löwen have a history of resilience and determination. After evolving through various names—StadtSport Braunschweig, Energy Braunschweig, and New Yorker Phantoms Braunschweig—the club adopted its current identity in 2014. Since then, they have established themselves as a competitive force in the BBL, with a fan base that is as passionate as it is loyal.

While the Löwen have faced challenges, their commitment to long-term success—both on and off the court—has earned them respect across Germany. Their academy graduates continue to rise through the ranks, and their community programs have set a benchmark for social responsibility in European basketball.

The club’s history is also a testament to Braunschweig’s love for the sport. The city’s support, combined with the Löwen’s innovative approach, has created a unique environment where basketball is not just a game but a way of life.

Looking Ahead: The Löwen’s 2025/26 Season and Beyond

The 2025/26 season is shaping up to be another pivotal year for the Löwen. With a focus on youth development, community engagement, and on-court success, the team is poised to continue its upward trajectory.

For fans, the next checkpoint is the upcoming home game against ALBA Berlin, where the Löwen will seem to build momentum for the rest of the season. Beyond the games, the club’s initiatives—from LöwenSchule to LöwenKita—will continue to make an impact, ensuring that the Löwen’s legacy grows with each passing season.

To stay updated on the Löwen’s progress, follow their official channels:

• Official Website
• Instagram
• Facebook