Iceland's fans steal the show in Helsinki

HELKSINKI (EuroBasket 2017) - A sea of blue supporters in the stands, full of enthusiasm and encouragement, have stolen the show in Group A and warmed the hearts of those at Helsinki Arena.

With three losses to start FIBA EuroBasket 2017, Iceland have endured a tough campaign and seem headed for an early exit. However, their games have unexpectedly become spectacles due to the large contingent of jovial Icelandic fans in the crowd.

Kitted out in their blue jerseys, the Icelandic army have taken up a good chunk of the grandstands and made their presence felt through unwavering support. Even with their team trailing convincingly, Iceland's fans fail to let it get them down, and continue testing their vocal cords right to the end. There are many reasons to be cynical about sports these days, but Iceland's genuine love for their team is a reminder of what sports fandom is all about.

Their enthusiasm is infectious, particularly when they collectively rise and perform the 'Viking Clap', which became a signature of Iceland's unforgettable run at UEFA Euro2016 and has spread globally, even into rugby in Australia.

Echoing around the arena, it starts with a thunderous single clap, becoming quicker and quicker. In a breath-taking finale, the 'Viking Clap' finishes in one final clap, accompanied by a cry of 'huh'. It's a crowd-pleaser, even for opposing fans, who can't help but be impressed and lured into taking part.

In a memorable moment towards the end of the France-Iceland game on Gameday 4, a small group of French fans sitting opposite the Iceland fans joined in the 'Viking Clap' in a heart-warming scene. It is almost impossible to pay attention to the game when the 'Viking Clap' is unfolding and one suspects even the players take a cheeky sideways glance at the unforgettable sight.

Despite convincing losses, Iceland have been competitive for chunks of games, buoyed by their beloved fans. "They have been tremendous and it's an incredible feeling to have so much support in the crowd from people who have traveled from our country," Iceland center Tryggvi Hlinason said.

At the press conferences after Iceland's games, a continual talking point revolves around the festivities in the stands with opposing coaches and players paying their respects. France star Evan Fournier admitted to being swept up by the atmosphere. "I loved it. They love to support and it is beautiful," he said. "You want to play for your country and the fans are a boost and the players see that and are energized by it."

France coach Vincent Collet was also effusive of the fans. "They have been fantastic for the first three games, it is impressive and it is like the soccer tournament (Euro2016) last year in France," he said. 

Poland coach Mike Taylor said the scenes from the stands during his team's 91-61 victory on Gameday 3 was astounding. "Great respect for Iceland and basketball fans in their country," he said. "What a fantastic moment for basketball, (Iceland) coach Craig (Pedersen), their staff and all their players. That's what EuroBasket is about - celebrating the sport of basketball."

With a population of a little over 300,000, Iceland fights out of their division but just making the grand stage of major tournaments is a momentous achievement for the tiny nation. At FIBA EuroBasket 2017, Iceland have had famed support among the throng including President Guoni Johannesson and their national football team, who were preparing for a World Cup Qualifier against Finland.

On Gameday 3, after the team's loss to Poland, many of the faithful travelled 177km to Tampere via a special train to watch the football game but, alas for them, Finland caused an upset in a disappointing sports day for Iceland. Still, the following day, Iceland's army was in trademark full voice against powerhouse France, who predictably cruised to an easy win, but the rabid basketball fans weren't disheartened.

Karl Blondal, deputy editor of Icelandic daily newspaper Morgunbladid, said many of those fans had a long association with Icelandic basketball and never imagined the national team could make the big stage.

"Many of them are ex-players or have been involved in the sport," he said. "A lot of them had long thought that Iceland would never qualify for a major tournament. If you're from somewhere like France you're used to qualifying all the time, whereas we've been saying this is something we will never be part of and all of a sudden we are. You can't miss these events."

Encapsulating the spirit was President Johannesson, who took part in the revelry during two games and the Football World Cup Qualifier, signaling the country's love - from the very top - of sport. Rather than opting for the VIP life, he sat front row with the fans. "We may be small but we turn that weakness into strength," he told fiba.basketball. "We like to show up and support our team because most of us will probably know some of the team members personally, come from the same town or have some other close connection with them. We just love to see them play with their heart and to give it their all, and when they do that, even a disappointing result does not dampen our enthusiasm and pride."

President Johannesson (left) with Icelandic Basketball President Hannes Jonsson

In addition to the rabid support in the stands, Johannesson said the team played in the right spirit. "I also like to think that when the players face a mighty opponent they do not fret or tremble, but perhaps think back to the time when they were just kids playing hoops at the school ground or in front of the garage at home," he said. "It is already a tremendous honor to have made it this far, to play for your country.

"Sports and patriotism go well together."

FIBA