EYBL U17: Resilient Squad Finishes 2–2 in Sofia After Rollercoaster Tournament
The EYBL U17 team returned from Sofia, Bulgaria with a respectable 2–2 record, concluding a demanding four-game stretch that showcased both adversity and elite individual performances. Despite injuries to key players, the group demonstrated resilience, grit, and flashes of exceptional talent.
Game 1 – Tough Opening Loss vs Host Team BUBA (69–100)
The tournament opened against BUBA, a powerhouse built around Bulgarian national team players. The hosts displayed their strength early, handing our boys a difficult 69–100 defeat.
Standout Performances:
Noah Binun – 29 points
Leo Bowman – 14 points
Ramsay Quidam – 12 points
The team suffered a major setback when Alex Nicolas rolled his ankle in the first quarter, ruling him out for the remainder of the tournament.
Game 2 – Bounce-Back Win Over Hoopstarz Academy (79–72)
Showing impressive mental strength after a tough start, the team regrouped on Day 2 to defeat the Swiss side Hoopstarz Academy. The match remained close throughout, with our team entering the fourth quarter down by three. A dominant final period secured a 79–72 victory.
Top Performers:
Noah Binun – 31 points
Leo Bowman – 27 points (U16 player stepping up)
Ramsay Quidam – 14 points, along with exceptional defensive work in shutting down the opponents’ primary scorer.
Game 3 – Bowman’s Historic 41-Point Explosion vs KK Dubrava (85–77)
The third game delivered one of the most remarkable EYBL performances in recent memory. Leo Bowman (U16) erupted for 41 points and 10 rebounds, displaying fearlessness and maturity well beyond his age. His offensive brilliance propelled the team to a crucial 85–77 win over Croatian side KK Dubrava.
Supporting efforts came from:
Ramsay Quidam – 22 points
Noah Binun – 17 points
Game 4 – Depleted Roster Falls to Hot Peppers (Netherlands)
The final game proved a step too far, as the squad was forced to play without Leo, Alex, and Noah. With three key contributors sidelined, the short-handed team battled but could not match the firepower of a talented Hot Peppers lineup. Despite the heavy loss, the group showed pride and competitiveness throughout.
Tournament Highlights & Awards
Noah Binun – All-Star Five Selection
A dominant presence across all games, Noah earned a place in the tournament’s All-Star 5, averaging:
25.7 points
11 rebounds
24 efficiency rating per game
Leo Bowman – Team MVP
The U16 standout proved unstoppable, averaging 21.3 points per game, highlighted by his 41-point masterpiece against Dubrava.
Ramsay Quidam – Defensive Anchor
Ramsay delivered on both ends, recognized as the team’s best defender, while contributing:
19.3 points per game
6.3 rebounds per game
Coach Daniel’s Reflections
“This trip was a mix of frustration and satisfaction. We faced multiple injuries to key players, and this affected our performances big time. Nevertheless, our talented squad fought bravely and won two games. I am proud of this unit, and I know there is a great future for this team.”
Next Stage: Milazzo, Italy – 8–11 January
The team now prepares for the next EYBL stage in Milazzo, Italy, where they’ll aim to build on the progress made in Sofia and return with a healthier and even stronger roster.
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