The news of your sudden passing, dear Bas, has left a silence in a space once filled with your ,curiosity and sincere passion for the training of basketball referees. Over the past two or so years, we shared numerous online messages, exchanging ideas about mechanics, philosophy, and how we can support referees not just to improve, but to grow with purpose. You asked questions not just to learn, but to understand, to uplift, and to build something better. Then, we finally met, this time last year, for the first time in Berlin and the friendship bond got stronger, continuing with more discussions and questions from your end during Summer and your dedicated following of the Summer youth tournaments.
When I was navigating my own grief after the loss of my mum last June, you didn’t hesitate to step in with immense words of comfort and presence that I’ll never forget. Your kindness was quiet but powerful.
In a world where true honesty is rare, you were a quiet reminder that trust can be built on few words and strong values. You showed that even short friendships can carry deep meaning—and yours certainly did.
Rest in peace, dear Bas Hendriks.
Adieu brate!
