Basketball Player Leads Team to Miracle Win in Germany

Down 20 points at halftime in a hostile arena, Justin Bean's team faced almost certain defeat in the championship game. But the 6-foot-7 forward and his Alba Berlin teammates refused to quit, staging an improbable comeback to win Germany's top basketball league title 84-81.

Bean earned Finals MVP honors with 18 points, 12 rebounds and five assists in the June 21 game. Germans are already calling it "Das Wunderspiel" or "The Miracle Game."

The championship capped a remarkable three-year journey for the 29-year-old former Utah State player. When Bean signed with Alba Berlin in 2023, he had no overseas experience and the team struggled through two losing seasons.

But Bean kept working, learning and improving while traveling across Europe for games. Off the court, he and his wife Claire started a family, welcoming son Logan (2) and daughter Emery (7 months) while living in Berlin.

The couple served actively in their local congregation. Claire worked with the women's organization while Justin advised youth and did missionary work. When Claire suggested inviting his teammates to their daughter's baby blessing ceremony, half the team showed up.

One teammate's wife told the Beans she felt a "calming peace" during the service that reminded her she was a daughter of God. The moment touched the entire family and showed how openness about faith can create meaningful connections.

Why This Inspires

Bean's teammates initially teased him about not drinking alcohol, but they came to respect his choices. After winning the championship, they made sure he had a soda in hand while they celebrated with champagne and beer.

When asked why he avoids drinking and partying, Bean tells his teammates: "It's because I love who I am and I love these guidelines. It's what makes our families happy." His authenticity has earned genuine respect from players who don't share his faith.

The message resonates because Bean never preached or judged. He simply lived his values consistently while working hard and treating everyone with respect.

On his final Sunday in Berlin before visiting family in the United States, Bean reflected on three years of struggles and triumphs. He felt a clear message: "When have I ever given you a reason to doubt Me?" The championship season proved that faith, persistence and teamwork can overcome any deficit.