Basketball Without Borders (BWB), one of the most prestigious talent development programs shaping the future of world basketball, has opened its doors for the first time in Istanbul with its original format, “Next Up.” Organized at the Basketball Development Center in collaboration with the NBA, FIBA, and the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF), the event brings together 78 high school-aged young athletes representing 44 countries and regions from 6 continents.

NBA Stars and Legendary Coaches Meet Young Talents

During the four-day intensive development program, young athletes have the opportunity to receive training directly from top figures in basketball. Valuable figures from the NBA and FIBA ​​​​arena lead the training sessions and leadership sessions.

Key Names Involved in the Camp

• Kenny Atkinson: Cleveland Cavaliers Head Coach
• Vlade Divac: NBA legend and former Yugoslavian National Team player
• Danilo Gallinari: Former NBA and Italian National Team player
• Brook Lopez: 2021 NBA Champion and All-Star (LA Clippers)
• Khris Middleton: 2021 NBA Champion and 3-time All-Star (Washington Wizards)
• Jalen Suggs: Kia NBA Second Team Member (Orlando Magic)
• Ekpe Udoh: Atlanta Hawks Assistant Coach

A New Era in its 25th Year: BWB Next Up Format

Following the BWB Europe events in 2002 and 2008, Istanbul is hosting the program for the third time. This gathering also marks the first implementation of the “Next Up” concept, launched in BWB’s 25th anniversary year. This new structure, which selects the 80 brightest male and 80 brightest female talents outside of the USA, will launch its women’s stage in the fall of 2026.

Players who excel at the Istanbul camp will earn the right to participate in the BWB All-Star camps held as part of the NBA and AT&T WNBA All-Star events. At the program’s finale, special awards will be given in categories such as MVP, Best Defensive Player, Three-Point Champion, and Sportsmanship.

A Global Platform Where World Stars Are Nurtured

Reaching over 4,900 young people from 149 different countries and regions since 2001, BWB camps stand out as a critical stepping stone to the professional league. To date, 155 camp graduates have stepped into the NBA or WNBA, while 1,490 athletes have played for their national teams.

More than 50 of the 135 international players on NBA teams at the beginning of last season have a BWB background. Today’s elite stars such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jamal Murray, Pascal Siakam, and Deni Avdija are among the players who have come through this program.