Istanbul: Some of the world's most promising young basketball players have gathered in Istanbul, hoping to take an early step along a path previously followed by NBA champions, All-Stars, and an MVP. Over four days, 78 prospects from around the world will train and compete at the Basketball Development Center as part of the inaugural Basketball Without Borders Next Up camp.
According to Anadolu Agency, the NBA, the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), and the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF) launched the camp under a new format marking the 25th anniversary of Basketball Without Borders (BWB). Since the program was founded, more than 150 former campers have gone on to play in the NBA or WNBA, including NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and NBA champions Jamal Murray and Pascal Siakam.
The young players in Istanbul will undergo athletic testing and skill-development sessions, compete in three-on-three and five-on-five games, and participate in programs designed to help them develop off the court. The prospects will learn from 2021 NBA champions Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton, NBA and FIBA legends Vlade Divac and Danilo Gallinari, and Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson.
Kenny Atkinson emphasized that talent alone is no longer enough to reach the NBA, highlighting the importance of developing habits both on and off the court. 'It's not enough to be a good player. It's not enough to be a talented player. You have to have all the habits to succeed and to make our league,' he explained. Atkinson noted that most newcomers enter the NBA as role players and must be prepared to contribute through defense, rebounding, and other essential tasks.
Danilo Gallinari, a former BWB camper and NBA player, reflected on the program's development over the past 25 years. He emphasized the global reach of basketball talent and the unique opportunity the camp provides for young prospects to improve and prepare for professional careers. 'The main goal for us as coaches is to see a little bit of improvement every day,' Gallinari said, encouraging participants to view the camp as a crucial first step toward future success.
The camp offers participants an opportunity to measure themselves against leading players from other countries while learning what will be required to succeed at the professional level. For some, the four days in Istanbul could become an early chapter in a career at the highest level of the sport. 'These kids, they have to understand that this camp is the first step to greatness,' Gallinari noted, emphasizing the potential for greatness through dedication and effort.