Sometimes volleyball is more than a sport. Sometimes the ball flies not only over the net, but through human pain, through absence, through memory. Today, on November 16, 2025, on an ordinary day of the Turkish Efeler League, in the Istanbul Gençlik hall, something far greater than a victory happened.

Iran's captain, Morteza Sharifi, stepped onto the court with tears in his eyes, but also with unyielding determination. On his back was not his own name. But the name of his closest friend, teammate, brother in spirit – Saber Kazemi. A player who, days ago, left this world too young, too early, too cruelly.

Sharifi did not hide the pain … but transformed it into fire. He played for him. And every one of his gestures, every attack, every block, reminded everyone that the love between two teammates does not die – it continues to live in the game.

KUŞGÖZ İZMİR VİNÇ AKKUŞ BELEDİYESPOR defeated the hosts İSTANBUL GENÇLİK by 3:1 sets:
25:18, 31:29, 22:25, 25:16.

And if volleyball has a heart – today it undoubtedly beat in No. 12. Or more precisely – in No.Saber Kazemi, which Morteza wore on his back.

Morteza Sharifi finished as the top scorer of the match - 24 points (2 aces, 2 blocks).
Akkuş Belediyespor dominated in key moments – especially in the first and fourth sets, where their powerful offense and stable blocking made the difference. The team's 11 aces and a total of 50 attack points show high efficiency, and a 58% positive reception demonstrates discipline and excellent risk management. The defense was also solid with numerous saved balls in defense, which allowed for successful counterattacks.