In the 2005/06 season Arka Gdynia experienced one of the most defining moments of its history. Led by coach Andrzej Pytka, the squad turned a shaky start into a triumph that still echoes among its supporters.
What was the path to the final?
The early regular‑season games were far from spectacular – a handful of losses and draws. After the winter break the team found its rhythm. Michał Chyła and Krzysztof Szubarga began to dominate the paint, and their chemistry attracted media attention. In the last five matches Arka won every game, securing a play‑off berth.
What decided the play‑off success?
In the quarter‑finals Arka faced Anwil Włocławek. Two wins and a loss were enough to advance, though the journey was anything but easy. The semifinal against Polpharma Warsaw tested stamina – three games, two overtime victories, and in the final match Michał Sokołowski hit the decisive three‑point shot in the closing seconds. Those moments forged the squad’s character.
Why does the final against Prokom Trefl Sopot stand out?
The championship game took place in Gdynia, adding extra atmosphere. After a tied first half, Arka seized the lead in the third quarter with accurate perimeter shooting. Marcin Gortat, a 19‑year‑old wing, logged 22 points, while Kamil Łączyński contributed 12 assists. The final score, 84‑78, confirmed the victory. Fans left the arena waving Arka flags, and fireworks lit the night sky.
What legacy did that season leave?
Young players who debuted then now lead the club in subsequent campaigns. Coach Pytka earned recognition as one of Poland’s top tacticians, and the 2005/06 success became a benchmark for future squads. Since then the team regularly battles for play‑off spots, and the memory of that final sustains a fighting spirit in every game.
Arka Gdynia proved that a blend of talent, determination, and local support can bring home the biggest trophies. Looking at today’s new generation, the spirit of that season still lives on the court.