- DAY ONE - 3 SEPTEMBER 2010

U17 LOOKINGAHEAD Opening  Tournament Milestoneswillbuild Ceremony Championship structure agreatfuture SPECTACULAR Realisingdreamson comesofage Page4 ACROBAtICSANDMORE theroadtoIstanbul Page2 Page6 Page9 RecordCongress aiminghigherstill

Basketball has confi rmed its position as “the other global ” and will scale yet greater heights. That was the message from FIBA Secretary General Patrick Baumann on the eve of the World Congress in Istanbul as delegates gath- ered for an action-packed week. It’s the best- supported Congress ever, with more than 170 countries represented and over 400 delegates. Welcometo “The sport has grown in maturity as have we Congress as an organisation,” said Baumann. “I think we are now recognised as one of the most innova- “I would like to tive international federations. extend the warmest “ continues to grow in popularity welcome to col- throughout the world and its status and value can leagues and friends be seen from the fact that now when we organise attending the World major tournaments we deal with the top people The World Championship opening was a colourful ceremony. More photo’s Pages 6 & 7. Congress, and thank such as ministers of sport or even prime ministers. the Turkish Basket- “It is they who recognise the importance able to increase by 50% the amount of money The growth of the sport is refl ected in signifi - ball Federation for of our game. It is not a question of us making channelled to the federations via the zones. The cantly increased interest in this World Congress claims.” target now is to double revenues over the next and in plans to reduce the congress cycle from organising what will With FIBA revenues and profi ts up, it was 10 years, said Baumann. four years to two. be an outstanding “It sounds an ambitious target but if you look “We have seen a 100% increase in the event. at it, it is not unrealistic, amounting to about number of federations registering for Istanbul,” “The response to seven per cent growth a year,” he said. “The said Baumann. “We had about 80 countries at this Congress has sport is growing at a very healthy rate and if the last congress and we have more than 170 been exceptional, we can grow our revenues similarly then we now. That is a very good and it is another sign of and refl ects the channel more money back to the grass roots and the growth of the sport. strength of our stimulate further growth. We are in a virtuous “The FIBA family is very active and as the game. I believe this circle.” sport grows around the world, so we see more Congress will chart Baumann said that the growth of the sport and more federations coming here looking for a powerful course was the result of a combination of factors, know-how and help because of that phenomenal for basketball for including the inherent attractiveness of the growth.” years to come. The game, and stronger organisation at FIBA, zone Baumann added that the congress theme – and federation levels. “Extending our Reach” – pointed to the chal- game we love is “You cannot really pinpoint any single factor,” lenge of the future. “We want to grow the game destined to become “TheFIBAfamilyisveryactiveand he said. “FIBA cannot take all of the credit but still further. I want to see a basketball in every stronger yet. asthesportgrowsaroundthe it has in place an effective strategy and we are house, garden, school, city square or beach and “Welcome to world,soweseemoreandmore now seeing the results of plans put in place over why not?” Istanbul. Welcome federationscomingherelooking the last two four-year cycles. He praised the Turkish Basketball Federa- to the World Con- “The federations are working hard on behalf tion for its work in organising both the World gress.” forknow-howandhelpbecauseof of basketball and the best federations do a really Congress and the World Championship. Bob Elphinston, thatphenomenalgrowth.” outstanding job. And of course the game really “In a few days we will crown a world cham- FIBA President Patrick Baumann, sells itself because it is athletic, fast and very pion in this fantastic country, which has been a FIBA Secretary General exciting.” perfect host to us.” Eurobasket aimstoimpress withEurobasket2011 Lithuania may be a small country, but it has big ambitions for Eurobasket 2011, according to Olafur Rafnsson, President of FIBA Europe. And the nation of 3.5 million people, hosting the event for the second time and the first since independence was restored in 1991, is on target to deliver a winning tournament. “The preparations are going according to schedule,” said Rafnsson speaking after visiting the recent U-18 European Championship in the country. “The excellent organisation does not leave anything but opti- mism for the local organising committee to deliver great work. “I was pleased to be present at an impressive final game where an attendance record of 13,000 spectators for this age category was set in a sold-out Siemens Arena in .” commissioners, instructors, judges, as well as staff members of the organisation. Eurobasket 2011 will feature 16 national teams, including of FIBA Europe.” “Lithuania is passionate for basketball, and having visited the host nation, title holders , Turkey, , The organisation of Eurobasket 2011 involved a collabora- their motivated administration I´m quite sure they will – in and . The competition, scheduled to run tive effort involving the Lithuania federation, the zone and addition to conventional promotion – introduce new promo- between September 3 – 18, will be staged at six venues, FIBA itself. tional components – as well as breaking records of the past, including two newly-built arenas in “The European basketball family has such as the remarkable Guinness Book of Records which and Klaipeda. proven to be a well functioning struc- saw 31.004 people bouncing basketball at the same time, set The final will be held at the new Zalgiris ture when it comes to organising high in at EuroBasket 2009.” Arena in Kaunas, which is scheduled for level events,” he said. “Obviously, as Expect great things from The Lithuania event, concluded completion later this year. the owner of the event, the role of FIBA Rafnsson. Rafnsson said: “A great number of Europe is to support, supervise and “I was a member of the Board of FIBA Europe who in people are already directly or indirectly govern all aspects – on behalf of all our November 2004 awarded the EuroBasket 2011 event to involved, while dedicated employees on member federations in Europe.” Lithuania, and surely this was a challenging decision for a behalf of the local organising committee Lithuania rates basketball as its number population of merely 3,5 million people. are between 10-20, and will be growing one sport and is aiming to put on a world- “We feel support by public authorities, both at municipal in number as the event gets closer. This class event, said Rafnsson. and governmental levels, and above all by the people of will be supplemented by a huge number “In Europe we enjoy the competitive Lithuania. Basketball is sport number one in Lithuania, they of volunteers.” passion among our member federations are highly motivated and skillful in promoting both players He added: “The event involves a for growing basketball. The success and events. great number of people from both local of every EuroBasket event is a new “I´m convinced that they will put on a spectacular sources, volunteers and employed starting point for the next organiser, who show of our sport, and at the same time give pride to their personnel – in addition to the referees, Olafur Rafnsson, President of FIBA Europe. definitely wants to improve every aspect country.”

U17 Tournamentstructurecomesofage

The launch of the FIBA U17 World the national federations which have senior level in a few years. Championships for Men and Women been incentivised to ensure that qualify- “In the Women’s event, France took has proved hugely successful and ing tournaments, teams and individuals the silver medal and came means that basketball’s governing are in place to support the new world- fourth, playing really nice basketball.” body has created the right structure wide events. The real significance of the launch for the sport world-wide, according to The USA won both the Men’s and of the U17 age group events is that it Jubilation: The USA winning team in the inaugural U17 Championship. FIBA Director Lubomir Kotleba. Women’s U17 events which probably finally resolves the long-term structure The inaugural Men’s and Women’s did not come as a surprise, but Kotleba of world tournaments, said Kotleba. were still too old for that format. I the cities of Rodez and Toulouse. Kotleba U17 championships were staged in pointed out that the tournaments were In the past, FIBA had run an U23 now think that we have the age levels said that developing a tournament at this Germany and France respectively this notable for the number competition, but it right and what looks like a really good level enabled smaller cities to play host past July. of unfancied teams that tended to be under- structure,” Kotleba explained. to world events. Kotleba, who attended both inau- did well. mined because many The new championships also had a “These events were played in freak gural tournaments, said: “They were “In the Men’s tourna- of the players were positive impact at zone and federation heat wave conditions where the tem- excellently organised and supported ment, Poland took the already good enough level. “The whole game had a power- peratures were hitting 35 degrees (cen- and were a very big success. The crea- silver medal with a very to be playing on their ful incentive to organise tournaments tigrade),” he recalled. “Despite that we tion of these events also finally seems promising team,” he said. senior national teams. and teams at this age level and there had really good attendances. Even in the to have resolved the overall structure “We never expected to “So we moved to an was a very positive response, so the smaller French city of Rodez, the games of the game around the world.” see Poland on the podium U21 format and after a whole game has benefited,” he added. for the French team were sold out. The new championships have also but they have a promising couple of editions we The Men’s tournament in Germany “Both proved to be excellent had a powerful and positive effect team and I think there are came to the conclusion was held in while the Women’s tournaments that were extremely well through the five continental zones and players you will see at the Lubomir Kotleba. that a lot of the players event in France was divided between organised.”

2 EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT Humanevolutionprompts

All court lines (black lines on the attached diagram) shall be 0,05 m in width. All red and dotted lines are just auxiliary lines that indicate correct measures. rules revolutioN The changing shape of the human body has prompted radical changes to the , according to FIBA Sports Director Lubomir Kotleba. Speaking a few weeks before the new rules are to be introduced, Kotleba said that the changes – due to come into force this October – were necessary because today’s athletes are faster, fitter and stronger than their counterparts of the past. “As standards of living continue to improve so the human body and that of the athletes in particular improve,” he said. “The game changes so it is necessary for the rules to change.” The five changes are aimed at making the game more attractive to watch while at the same time taking a step towards a more unified game world-wide. Key changes include moving the three-point line back (from 6.25m to 6.75m), changing the shape of the restricted area from a trapezoid to a rectangle in order to make it less crowded, the introduction of a “no charge” semi circle under the basket, and the shot clock being reset to 14 seconds rather than 24 when a throw-in is taken in the frontcourt after a foul or violation is committed with 13 or less seconds displayed on the clock. Changing the shape of the restricted area aligns the world game more closely with the . “This is an attempt to harmonise things, one step along the way to having one set of rules,” said Kotleba. “We believe that these changes will make the game more fluid, make a much more passing and combination game. It should be more attractive to watch.” Kotleba said that regular modifications to the rules were needed in basketball to keep pace with human body development and ever-higher levels of fitness. “Basketball rules change quite often,” he said. “Often the changes are cosmetic and of interest mainly to referees and coaches, and sometimes they go deeper. These The new layout and dimensions of the courts. changes are some of the most important we have had.”

A3 1:100 Countryfile– Focussingonwomenandyouth

Get to know some of the 213 national federa- Stempfel: The creation of various tools to enable the Reaching Out: What is your federation hoping tions in attendance at the 19th FIBA World promotion of the game of basketball in Switzerland to achieve at this Congress? Congress with Country File. Francois Stempfel at different levels (clubs, schools, associations), and Stempfel: Extend our network and learn from of talks to Reaching Out. leverage media exposure and excitement around other federations’ experiences. Thabo Sefolosha, the first and so far only Swiss Reaching Out: Can you outline the progress and player to play in the NBA (Oklahoma City Thunder) Reaching Out: What action taken by the 2010 key developments in your federation in the four with a promotion concept supported by him. Congress could most help your federation? years since the last FIBA World Congress? We have also created a work group to find Stempfel: Create a work group with the topic Stempfel: In the last four years, we have focused solutions to increase the playing time for Swiss “Nationality of player”: the number of years in on the development of youth and women’s bas- players within the men’s national league. which a player has been trained in a country shall ketball in Switzerland. We managed to increase We have limited the amount of female players be somehow recognised. Francois Stempfel. the number of national teams from three to seven not educated in Switzerland to two per national (Senior Men and Women, U20 Men, U18 Men league teams and are working with a newly formed Reaching Out: How do you see basketball devel- and Women, U16 Men and Women) women’s committee for women’s basketball. oping in your country over the next three years? Switzerland–factfile Stempfel: Better media coverage thanks to the Reaching out: What are the main barriers to Reaching Out: What can other federations learn new EuroBasket competition system, and more progress currently facing your federation? from your experience? Swiss talents feeding the first division clubs and • FIBA ranking – 93 • Registered players – 15,000 Stempfel: Our biggest challenges are to raise the Stempfel: We are now starting to reap the ben- the national teams. • Main tournaments number of licensed players (it’s been decreasing over efits of our investment in youth basketball. Former – U16 international tournament in the past few years) and giving adequate playing time youth national team players are now being suc- Reaching Out: Where do you see world basket- Geneva (December) to the young Swiss talents in the top leagues. cessfully integrated in our senior national teams ball in four years’ time? – U15 and U13 Regional selections which have a promising future. It took us four years Stempfel: Basketball will be an even more global tournaments (December, March, June) Reaching Out: What steps are you taking to to fully implement our development strategy so it’s sport on the five continents. – Mini-basket get together days (May) overcome these challenges? important to always keep in mind mid term goals.

ReachingOut, The FIBA World Championship Congress Daily is produced on behalf of the organisers by Trident Communications Dubai. FIBA Communications: Florian Wanninger, Simon Wilkinson, Andrew Robotham, Luis Modestti | Editor: Mike Martin | Designed by: Helen Coupland | Production and design: Greg Bryant Journalist: Alan Dron | Photography: Jim Robbins, FIBA Archive | Printed by: TEMPO Matbaacılık ve Ambalaj San. A.S, Istanbul If you have a story to tell at the FIBA World Championship then the Congress Daily wants to hear from you. The newspaper will be published every day this week and circulated at the event. It’s your event newspaper, so let us know what your organisation is doing. The Daily team is located in Lausanne Room, Level 5.

EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT 3 Baumann said that competitions remain the most important tool to promote basket- ball, to develop new generations of talent and to generate revenues. “With the added U17 World Champion- ships and the close relationship with FISU (International University Sports Federa- tion) we have created an excellent path for youngsters to move from the age of 15 -16 to the top senior level,” he said. At the same time, he added, national teams need to be more visible during the year. “National federations and their support- ers are hungry to see their stars playing international competitions at home. While this is challenging at many levels, FIBA and its members need to take a courageous approach towards the competition calendar for the future if we want to achieve greater value for the efforts that the basketball family invests in our sport every day. “We will continue to seek pro-actively the increase in teams for the Olympic Games from 12 to 16 and will also work to increase the World Championship Senior Men to 32. At the same time we hope to be able to better address the needs of women’s basketball.” FIBA is in good financial shape, said Baumann. Revenues and profits continued to rise and FIBA was able to distribute 50% Part of the opening ceremony from the 2010 FIBA World Championship. more funds to the zones than had been budgeted for in 2007. “After careful examination of our activities Lookingahead and with the assistance of external consult- ants it is clear that FIBA finds itself in a good position with strong upside potential,” said Baumann. “But it is not yet realising its full Milestoneswill potential when compared to other sports.” “Neverhas therebeensuch buildagreatfuture astrongeffort In the four years since the FIBA World Con- look alike around the whole globe,” he said. The progress and well-being of national gress in , there has been terrific action The year also saw the purchase of a prop- federations remain essential to the develop- fromnational on courts around the world, and a whole lot erty in Mies, 10 minutes from Geneva where ment of basketball but there is still work of action off the court, according to FIBA the new FIBA headquarters will be built. to do, he said. “A key objective remains to federationsand Secretary General Patrick Baumann. In 2009 the competition between , improve their organisation and to have them FIBA has delivered on a string of achieve- and Spain to host the 2014 Men’s World participate in FIBA’s activities at both world suchgovernment ments, covering everything from the go- Championship, saw Spain take the prize. and continental level. This is not yet the case ahead for a new headquarters to the highly The intensity of the competition reflects the for many of our 213 member federations.” commitment successful Afrobasket in Angola. growing power and importance of the game Successful initiatives in the last four Looking forward, sound finances and an worldwide, said Baumann. years have included more than 110 Olympic tolobbyfor ever-growing sport promise a great future, “Never has there been such a strong Solidarity clinics held in as many countries he said. effort from national federations and such gov- and the Basketball without Borders scheme andobtainthe Baumann reviewed the highlights of the ernment commitment to lobby for and obtain which has seen youngsters from more than past four years and outlined key issues to the FIBA World Championship,” he said. 100 countries take part. In addition, World FIBAWorld ensure a sustainable future. “The new business model enshrined in the Championship qualifiers have been played In 2007, Afrobasket was held in Angola, 2014 Event Manual approaches the relation- by more than 170 countries and a similar Championship.” an event backed by the government. “The ship with the Organisers as a Joint Venture, number have registered for this year’s World Angolan experience was very encouraging for rather than awarding the event and receiving Congress (up by more than 100%), he said. The consultants identified three success the African Continent. The professional level hosting fees, and marks a new and important “It is obvious that a lot is being done, factors – to be implemented in the 2011 – of the organisation, the nationwide promotion progress in the business maturity of FIBA and but there remain a number of federations 2014 budget - to fulfil FIBA’s potential: Align- around the event, the state support and invest- of its strongest national federations.” whose participation in the international ment, Focus and Investment. ment in the required infrastructure, all have This year has seen a raft of new initiatives, basketball family life is minimal. This needs “Alignment essentially means that the FIBA been astonishing. No doubt, Angola could well including the first U17 World Championships to change and we need to find the appropri- family at all levels, needs to work hand in hand host a world event in the future,” he said. and the launch of the FIBA33 three on three ate resources whether human, financial or and understand the implications of the various The year also saw the 75th anniversary form of the game seen for the first time in material to them. decisions that we take daily across all fields of of FIBA and the opening of the FIBA Hall of competition at the Youth Olympic Games. “We have progressively assisted and activity. Focus means that we need to better Fame, with its first induction ceremony. Baumann reviewed some of the FIBA developed the Zone structures over the past use our scarce resources before spreading The following year saw the “historic deci- strategic objectives set out at the last World eight years and it is now time to move a them too thinly across a multitude of tasks and sion” taken to change the rules of the game and Congress. “Some remain still valid, some step further and to concentrate our efforts, to ensure that the top properties achieve top the layout of the court (applicable as of 2010- have been achieved, and a few need to be together with the Zones, on the individual revenues. Investment means that we need 2012). “As a consequence, basketball courts will reviewed or scrapped altogether,” he said. member federations.” essentially to invest more aggressively in key

4 EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT areas and be more patient in terms of timelines markets posed increased risks to basketball with the return on investments. and other sports. “In conclusion, according to the analysts, “It is therefore important to be aware of Countryfile–Iceland FIBA should be able to double its revenues the problems, to monitor the competitions over the next 10 years despite the gloomy and to educate players, officials and entou- economy. In turn this would mean that we rage on the risks. At the same time, if prop- Uptothechallenge can re-distribute more to the family through erly controlled and ethically managed, the the Zones and possibly make direct financial legal betting industry favours the uncertainty Hannes S. Jónsson, President of the contributions to the federations that partici- of the results and, whether public or cor- Icelandic Basketball Association, talks pate in official competitions.” porate, will increasingly become a leading to Reaching Out about the progress it has Baumann said that good governance was provider of important revenues to sport.” made in developing the game and the essential to FIBA’s future. FIBA’s strategy for the future involves challenges of the recession. “It protects our autonomy, gives us cred- major investments in three key areas – sport, ibility and guarantees a sustainable growth events and promotion, said Baumann. Reaching Out: Briefly outline progress for our activities. Doping, Betting and Govern- In sport, FIBA and the zones will give and key developments in your Federa- ance are three areas where FIBA and its more direct attention to those national tion in the four years since the last FIBA members need to be particularly careful.” federations that work well and have the Congress. The FIBA track-record on doping is “posi- potential to reach the top 24 teams at the Jónsson: We have worked systemati- tive”, he said. World Championship, in order to increase it cally towards increasing the media’s “Basketball does not seem to have a to 32 as quickly as possible. interest in basketball. We have managed major problem with doping. Only 48 adverse “We reckon that, under this scheme, to make the games appeal to the whole Hannes S. Jönsson analytical findings were recorded in the past about 25 countries will be targeted specifi- family by not only playing basketball, cycle. We have regular and professional cally over the next four to eight years. At the but having extra entertainment as from all the nations unite in making our doping controls at all official competitions same time, we shall review the competition well. Because of our work, the number sport even more popular than it is now. as well as a lean and cost-efficient result system in order to ensure the presence of of people who play basketball has management system. national teams on home soil.” increased by 10%. It was also a very Reaching Out: What action taken by “However, we are still inexperienced in the Turning to events, Baumann said that positive step to locate basketball courts the 2010 Congress could most help your implementation of the WADA Code, inaccurate future investment will target off-court strate- outside, for example near schools. Federation? in the delivery of whereabouts, uncoordinated gies as well as the action on-court. Jónsson: Although money is not every- in prevention campaigns and reluctant – for “We will ensure a long-lasting, sustain- Reaching Out: What challenges to the thing, it would make a considerable dif- cost reasons - to set up out-of competition able legacy for the hosting countries. The growth of basketball do you face? ference for Iceland and other small and testing programmes. Over the past four years 2014 World Championship will be a particular Jónsson: Because of the financial medium-sized nations if the Federations FIBA has signed up to the revised WADA Code milestone to this effect.” situation in Iceland, it has been quite a were to get financial support every and constantly informs national federations On the promotion front, Baumann said the challenge to continue doing the good year from FIBA World, and in our case, about their duties in this regard. While it is a intention is to significantly invest to increase work that has been done in recent also from FIBA Europe. This is precisely costly administrative operation, we have to the game’s presence and profile in the media. years. The government has not sup- what FIFA and UEFA are doing for their cooperate and can do better.” “At the same time we should perform much ported the Federations, and in the light Federations. We are not suggesting that Baumann said that in many countries better in the area of branding, licensing and of the bad economy now, we realise the financial support would be as high, federations faced interference from public merchandising.” that the government is not going to but the fact is that it is very difficult authorities due to bad governance. The launch of FIBA33 (the three on three increase funds to sports in general. The for us to compete with football for the “In some coun- form of the game) status of the Icelandic Krona is also attention of the media because of the tries two basketball offers the chance a great worry because it makes it dif- big funds they get. federations fight for “Wewillensure to create a “tidal ficult for us to send our national teams supremacy, in others wave” of new abroad. It has not been easy to get the Reaching Out: How do you see basket- improper use of along-lasting, fans and players, television stations to take an interest ball developing in your country over the (government) funds said Baumann. in our national teams. The fact is that next three years? or wrongdoings in sustainablelegacy He added that its the media favours football, especially Jónsson: We want to increase basket- the electoral proc- attractiveness because FIFA and UEFA give great ball participants about 15 percent and esses trigger reac- forthehosting reaches far beyond financial support to their members. that is our goal. We feel that the inter- tions from ministries the recent Youth est of the public has to increase and or National Olympic countries.” Olympic Games Reaching Out: What steps are you that is what we will continue working Committees. where it was taking to overcome these challenges? at. We want to participate again in “Unfortunately, FIBA has had to get launched in the competitive arena. Jónsson: We have lots of interesting European competitions as soon as pos- involved in more than 10 conflicts in the past “It is essentially an optimal tool that links ideas and are working systematically sible, but unfortunately we were unable four years and it is likely that many more grassroots programmes around the world towards the goal of getting financial to send teams to compete this year conflicts occurred at a local level without and gives a home under FIBA to a universe support, which will in turn help us to because of the financial situation of the ever reaching our desks. From all the cases which has been on the margin of our activi- increase basketball participants. Icelandic Basketball Association. experienced, it was clear that with proper ties. We will unite all its participants, provide rules, statutes and basic principles of good them with a simple but attractive and self- Reaching Out: What can other Federa- Reaching Out: Where do you see world governance such interferences would not sustaining competition system and world- tions learn from the experience of your basketball in four years’ time? happen or would not be justified. wide ranking, ensure a drastic increase of Federation? Jónsson: Basketball needs to be even “Good governance is essential to protect membership for all national federations and, Jónsson: This is difficult to answer, more conspicuous worldwide, and our autonomy and to generate revenues. ultimately, create a ‘tidal wave’ of passion- but perhaps other nations can learn there is no doubt that it can, but we FIBA will therefore invest more efforts in ate basketball fans and players. something from the way we work at need to unite in finding ways to make accompanying the member federations, also “From your kids’ neighbourhood tourna- increasing basketball participants. We this happen. Our aim is to increase through the new membership commission ment to a world series of professional are a small nation and there are not that awareness in big countries as well as in their work for proper statutes, regulations athletes that runs through all continents, many people who work at publicizing small ones and in towns and cities eve- and management processes.” we have a unique chance to create a new basketball and its achievements. The rywhere, so that all the individuals who He added that the creation of the FIBA discipline while keeping its inherent social work is mostly done by volunteers. live there will come to know the names Academy, the on-line educational tool based on and cultural values. of the greatest basketball heroes in the national federation manual, would also help. “It may be a dream, but a basketball in every Reaching Out: What is your Federation the world. Yet again, football comes to Betting also posed a challenge, he said. house, garden, school, city square or beach hoping to achieve at this Congress? mind, because they have done a great Although it has never been a serious makes the impossible possible, with your help. Jónsson: It is our hope that the basket- job publicising football and we can problem in basketball, modern technol- This is why the theme of this Congress is: extend ball leadership and the representatives indeed do the same with basketball. ogy and the liberalization of the gambling our reach and, may I add, conquer theworld.”

EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT 5 FIBAWORLDCHAMPIONSHIPOPENINGCEREMONY spectacularAcrobatics SpectatorsattheSinanErdemArenainIstanbulweretreatedtoanamazingopeningceremonyfortheworldchampionshipas therenownedCirqueduSoleilbeganthefestivities.

6  EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT 7 The Final Round of the 2010 FIBA World Championship will be played at Istanbul’s Sinan Erdem Dome (capacity of 15,500) from Saturday 4th to Sunday 12th September.

“Sincethe objectiveof hostingthe Championship wassetin1998, expectations werehighand ‘2010’wasa commonword ineveryone’s vocabularyand whenwewon theelection everyonewas ecstatic.”

Emin Balci, Event Director 2010 FIBA World Championship Local Organising Committee (LOC), with his team and volunteers. Commemorative coin. TurkeyChampionship Realisingdreamson theroadtoIstanbul The road to the FIBA World Championship in Turkey has been a fi bre optic communications networks, LED screens and new furnishings. and time, we still believe that it can be revived in future,” said Balci. long one and the vision that has made it a reality does not end “Our approach was to design the most sustainable and func- “Another challenge was to become the major negotiator or with the tournament. It stretches far into the future. tional arenas because the basketball arenas will serve the game translator in between the Turksih State and FIBA. I believe we did a Astonishingly, the decision to aim to be hosts of a world event in Turkey for many years,” added Balci. “Moreover, we had to work great job. FIBA is the owner of this organisation and we’ve hosted dates back to 1998 when the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF) closely with the government on areas like budgeting.” many FIBA events in Turkey in the past. However none of them were committed to the goal. An executive committee, including the President and Secretary of this scope. More than 10 years later new stadiums are packed, the support General of the TBF, oversaw the work. The LOC was gradually “The FIBA requirements are vital to host a successful Cham- infrastructure is completed and the tournament is underway. A small scaled up until it reached 50 full-time staff, mainly located at the pionship and we needed to explain these details to the army of organisers and volunteers has been deployed to deliver Abdi Ipeckci Area where the TBF is located and with Turkish authorities. On the other hand Turkey, just like what the TBF demanded – the best FIBA World Championship ever. smaller teams at the other three centres. Closer to other countries, has a unique culture. Therefore, in “Since the objective of hosting the Championship was set in the championships, the full-time staff were comple- some cases we had to explain to FIBA the way things 1998, expectations were high and ‘2010’ was a common word in mented with scores of volunteers. work in Turkey and how they might be different from everyone’s vocabulary and when we won the election everyone Balci said the team faced a range of challenges, the rest of the world,” he recalled. was ecstatic,” said Emin Balci, Event Director 2010 FIBA World from the new infrastructure projects to brokering effec- “Right at this point, I fi rmly believe that Championship Local Organising Committee (LOC). tive communications between FIBA and the FIBA and the Turkish Government compre- “It was one of those ‘dream come true’ situations and we Turkish government. hend each other very well and the LOC’s publicly celebrated winning the election. After that stage, our “The main challenge was the construc- efforts were key to the success.” concentration was directed to start preparations and planning.” tion of the arenas,” he said. “We initially While FIBA was learning about Turkish culture, Istanbul A master plan was developed embracing the construction of had an amazing project, a dream project called the and the other event-staging cities had to adapt to the needs new stadiums, the renovation of existing facilities and the creation Istanbul Super Arena which was expected to host the of the basketball world. And that involved upsizing beds and of state-of-the-art infrastructures. New stadiums – the Sinan fi nals right at the heart of Istanbul.” shower cabins to accommodate tall players. Erdem Arena in Istanbul and the Ankara Arena in the country’s A fi rm of architects specialising in such projects drew “Turkey is a country well known for its hospitality,” capital – were completed, while work was carried out on existing up plans which won praise from many groups. However, said Balci. “The service sector is very advanced and the facilities in Istanbul (Abdi Ipekci Arena), Izmir (Halkapinar Arena) problems over the land where the stadium would have basketball players’ accommodation is well organised. They and Kayseri (Kayseri Kadir Has Arena). been built meant the project did not go ahead. will be hosted in reputable fi ve-star hotels where they will The stadiums were equipped with support infrastructure such as “Even though that failed project took a lot of energy have their own lounges.

8  EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT “Geographically-speaking,Turkey isanattractivedestinationand closetooverseasneighbours offeringapotentialaudience.We hopetohostaChampionshipwhere thenumberofinternational fansoutnumbersprevious tournaments” Commemorative stamps. Emin Balci.

Kayesi Kadir Has Arena.

we’vegotthecapacity

Below, spectator capacity numbers for a selection of arenas being used in the 2010 FIBA World Championship 15,500 Sinan Erdem Dome, Istanbul Above main: Ankara Arena. Lower left to right: Izmir Halkapinar Arena, Istanbul Sinan Erdem Arena, Istanbul Abdi Ipekci Arena.

“Both in the hotels and in the arenas, the bed size and shower effect and today we are able to host the most recognised basket- cabin sizes were rearranged to meet the players’ needs. All the ball event in the world ever.” requirements were considered to provide the best conditions for The championship itself will serve as a launchpad for the future. the participants, including a comprehensive security system.” “First of all, the venues constructed for this tournament 11,500 Balci said that advance ticket sales were excellent, with many will form a heritage where many teams and players Abdi Ipekci Arena, Istanbul overseas visitors combining attendance at the Championship with will perform in future,” he said. “They will play a chance to sample the attractions of Istanbul and Turkey. a major role in the development of basketball “Geographically-speaking, Turkey is an attractive destination in Turkey. and close to overseas neighbours offering a potential audience. “In addition, the venues will also be able We hope to host a Championship where the number of interna- to host many signifi cant organisations besides tional fans outnumbers previous tournaments,” he said. “A lot basketball. Finally, I believe that this event will 10,000 of ticket requests came from German, Lithuanian, Slovenian and encourage both young players to follow their Ankara Arena, Ankara Russian fans.” dreams and the parties to structure their goals as to He added: “Besides international fans, as the tournament host such international organizations of larger scope.” progresses and the Turkish national team turns the “12 giant men” Balci said that his team’s hard work will be amply slogan into reality, we are sure that local sales will get higher.” rewarded as the championship progresses and visi- Balci said that TBF aims to turn the short-term gains of a suc- tors and players alike have the chance to experience cessful tournament into a long-term investment in the future of legendary Turkish hospitality. 9,500 basketball in Turkey. From the start of the project four years ago, “The unique thing about the preparations Halkapinar Arena, Izmir FIBA surveys showed that two thirds of the population were aware was our ability to harmonize the professional of it. The experience of hosting the 2001 European Championship vision with our amateur souls and I think was a key indication of how the game can grow after the current this is what will amuse and delight our tournament. guests the most. We look forward to “That event created a huge audience in Turkey,” he said. “The give people the chance to experience parties invested more in basketball. The teams and therefore the the exceptional hospitality of Turkish 7,200 leagues were strengthened. This whole chain created a domino culture.” Kadir Has Arena, Kayseri

EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT 9 Countryprofile– Basketballstillscoring despitecompetition Ojars Kehris, President of the Latvian Basketball Asso- scale. Our position- ciation, assesses prospects for the future of the game ing of basketball in in a nation with a proud record of achievement. Latvia is a sport for smart and success- Reaching Out: Can you outline the progress and key devel- ful people. Simone Pradall. opments in your federation in the four years since the last Additionally, FIBA World Congress. it is a possibil- Kehris: The four-year period between the two FIBA ity to gain good Exhibitorprofile– congresses has coincided with tough times in Latvia. education and find Global recession seriously aggravated the problems of a placement in life. sportsystem the country’s economy. Earlier rapid economic growth, Ojars Kehris. Participation in the where the country had the highest GDP growth in Europe Youth League and was replaced by deep recession. The year 2010, however, different age group National Teams are tightly interlinked has brought the first signs of much anticipated economic with the performance of the young basketball players at targeting recovery. schools, encouraging them to excel not just on court. In autumn of 2008 our basketball celebrated several Furthermore, the economically effective model of the remarkable anniversaries. The Latvian Basketball Asso- European Youth Basketball League has been imple- ciation - one of the founders of FIBA - commemorated mented and successfully developed also in Latvia. With MidEast its 85th jubilee by paying homage to the most success- little resources involved, this allows young basketball ful basketball veterans; marking out new passages of players to regularly participate and gain experience in development in a conference alongside with FIBA and high-class competitions. FIBA Europe presidents and management, and, certainly, Alongside ‘classic’ basketball, street ball is also devel- markets actively playing basketball on all levels - youth, non-pro- oping well in Latvia. We have arranged campaigns by fessional and professional. setting up hoops in publicly accessible open-air areas. The growing popularity of basketball is helping to ease the Furthermore, the legendary women’s basketball team, Within the framework of the Clean Game Campaign, wounds in Iraq as the country rebuilds after years of war, and Riga TTT, celebrated its 50th anniversary. In the 1960’s, 1970’s Latvia’s best basketball players have spoken to youth audi- one leading supplier is taking a step forward in meeting the and 1980’s, TTT won 18 European Champion titles attaining a ences, thus raising public awareness of the many dangers needs of the game there. record, which, in the modern sport, is hard to repeat. of the doping and drug abuse. Sport System, supplier of a range of equipment for basketball and other sports, has recently targeted the Middle East market Reaching Out: What are the main barriers to progress Reaching Out: What is your federation hoping to achieve and sees great potential there, according to Simone Pradall, currently facing your federation? at this Congress? Export Manager for the company. Kehris: The general situation in the country has certainly Kehris: We hope to have in store a quality discussion on “Recent main markets where Sport System is strongly devel- impacted the life of basketball. During the boom years, how to ensure that the best players would be seen as a oping business include Iraq, Azerbaijan and Saudi Arabia,” he basketball infrastructure experienced good development. part of National Teams more often than just one month said. “The company believes very strongly in the Iraqi market as Many Latvian cities boast modern gyms that are used for during the summer. one of the best business opportunities for the coming years.” practices by both young basketball players and profes- The company supplies its products to more than 50 countries sional clubs. Reaching Out: What action taken by the 2010 Congress worldwide. The securing of the material base has helped to suc- could most help your federation? Sport System has focused on the basketball market for more cessfully overcome harder times and the consequences of Kehris: I have talked about the legendary women’s basket- than 30 years, and is a partner in the FIBA Study Centre which it demographic crisis, as well as to effectively cope with the ball team, Riga TTT and its achievements. Thus, we believe, joined in 2001. pressure in competition with other popular sports in Latvia – this team has earned its place in the FIBA Hall of Fame, Its products include portable basketball backstops, wall and soccer and ice hockey. which until now has admitted only individual athletes. ceiling mounted basketball nets, outdoor basketball backstops One of the major challenges of basketball in the (fixed or portable); recreational basketball units; judges’ tables modern world is to maintain its position and develop it Reaching Out: How do you see basketball developing in and accessories; players’ benches and accessories; balls and further in a situation where the spectrum of free-time your country over the next three years? training equipment. spending possibilities for youth keeps growing. That is a Kehris: We believe that in order to improve the competitive Last year the firm unveiled its Easyplay Training portable bas- problem, which at the same time provides a possibility to capacity of basketball in comparison to other popular kinds ketball backstop with 225 cm projection unit and patented coun- find new and original solutions. of sport, the global basketball community needs closer terbalance system already found on its other products. Pradall said unity and cooperation. Our short-term goal is for more and that the product has proved to be a best seller since its launch. Reaching Out: What steps are you taking to overcome more youngsters to choose basketball as their lifestyle for Other products include a complete line of furnishing and these challenges? the rest of their lives. Consequently, our other objective is accessories for changing rooms, infirmaries, meeting rooms or Kehris: Our quality is the approachability of basketball in to develop Latvia into a country that exports its basketball press rooms allowing customers to completely equip an entire almost all regions of the country. Despite the worsening of knowledge through coaches and players. sport venue. the demographic situation in Latvia, the number of players Sport System was the first Italian company in this sector to has not reduced. We have also retained high positions in be certified to International Organisation for Standardisation the European rank charts. LATVIA–factfile (ISO) 9000. The Senior Women’s National Team participated in the The FIBA Study Centre was founded to help equip and increase Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. The Youth National Teams the number of sports facilities throughout the world, encourage the are three-time bronze medal winners in European youth • FIBA ranking – 35th Men; 17th Women construction of basic facilities and the refurbishment of older ones, championships. The development of men and women’s • Registered players – 5,000 (with another 4,000 unlicensed) co-ordinate research initiatives and offer consulting services for basketball is very balanced and the basketball environment • Main tournaments – , Latvian materials, equipment design and construction. is active, thus allowing us to have an optimistic perspective. Basketball League, Latvian Women’s Basketball league, The objective is to attain a high standard of quality, safety and In 2007 we adopted a four-year programme of Latvian Youth Basketball League, Amateur League, high-tech, for the athletes, for the public, as well as for the media basketball development focusing on youth development Student League, European Youth Basketball League. whose demands are growing rapidly. This can only be obtained by and regular organisation of basketball events of different a constant control and inspection of facilities and equipment.

10 EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT Afterhoursin… Istanbul ThereislotstodoandexploreawayfromtheWorldCongress. Eachday,ReachingOutwillbringyouatasteofwhattodoand seeinIstanbul,fromhistoricalsitestoshoppinganddiningout.

AllthisandIstanbultoo! As if the World Congress and the World Championships were not enough, both events are billion rail project was delayed while digging work continued. The ongoing archaeological work being staged in one of the most exciting cities on earth. has unearthed a treasure house of ancient boats that could also re-write maritime history. Famously, the only city on earth to be in both Europe and Asia at once, Istanbul offers As if its history and role as home to a range of cultures was not fascinating enough, something for everyone, from huge bazaars to historical wonder. already. The city formerly known as Constantinople, was the capital of the eastern Roman, And if you thought that Istanbul was already one of the most interesting destinations Byzantine and Ottoman empires. going, you will be interested to learn that it just got even more intriguing. Topkapi Palace is a maze of buildings from Ottoman times with a priceless collection of Traditionally, historians had put the age of the city at around 2,500 years. However, recent porcelain, gold and gems. The Blue Mosque is breathtaking. The bazaars have an atmos- archaeological work has turned up Neolithic remains in the heart of the city that suggest its phere of there own and are found nowhere else. Many of the city’s important landmarks true age is more like 8,000 years. have earned UNESCO World Heritage listing, from stunning Ottoman mosques and Byzantine So important are the discoveries – described by historians as “sensational” – that a multi- churches and catacombs to the columns of Hellenistic temples and the remains of massive medieval city walls. Another must-visit site is Haghia Sophia, the legacy of the Byzantine empire. It was originally a church and later became a mosque before fi nally becoming a museum. For nearly 1,000 years it was the largest enclosed space in the world. Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world with 12.8 million people. Divided into 39 districts, it is the cultural, economic and fi nancial centre of the country. It is located on the Bosphorus Strait and encompasses the natural harbour known as the Golden Horn, one of its many beautiful sights. Others include sunsets over the Bosphorus enjoyed from a cruise boat or the spectacular views over the city from nearby hills. Shopping in Istanbul is good value and endlessly fascinating, no more so than in the (rightly named) Grand Bazaar where some 30,000 traders create an atmosphere found nowhere else on earth. Turkish cuisine fuses the tastes of Europe, the Mediterannean and the Middle East. Whatever your interest, you will always encounter one the real delights of Istanbul – the hospitality of the Turkish people. While the city is packed with monuments and relics of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras, recent years have seen many areas of the city renewed with a wave of new restaurants, stylish rooftop bars and nightclubs on the shores of the Bosphorus. The ancient city constantly renews itself. As Napoleon said: “If the earth was a single Topkapi Palace. state, Constantinople (Istanbul) would be its capital.”

artists from Europe to perform or exhibit on rafts ARedLetteryearforIstanbul which would be moored at different points along The FIBA World Championship is not the only reason for vis- of St Irene in the the Bosphorus. iting Istanbul just now. This year, the city has been celebrat- grounds of Topkapi There is also a celebration of Turkish baths, tradi- ing its status as European Capital of Culture and the result is Palace, and prized for tional music and jazz festivals during this period. that there is even more on offer. its accoustics. And what was there before was given an extensive The year has been • Find out more about the programme for European makeover in the run-up to 2010, with a programme of res- grouped around Aris- Capital of Culture year at www.istanbul2010.org toration of everything from traditional Ottoman buildings to totle’s four elements, tombs and bazaars. Earth, Air, Water, and On a smaller scale, an exhibition entitled 99 The galvanizing power of winning the right to host major Fire. The fi rst two Qur’ans will showcase the exquisite calligraphy world events was evident in Istanbul which underwent a periods have passed for which Istanbul became famous for in the huge programme of works, with new infrastructure, the and Fire will be the Ottoman Empire, at the Galata Dervish Lodge “greening” of some districts and the opening of a string of theme at the end of the (Sep 5-Nov 15). new museums. year. The programme is Among the new museums to open this year Status as European Capital of Culture makes this year an now in the Water phase. is The Museum of the Princes’ Islands which is Turkish bath. exceptional one to visit the city. Added to the familiar attrac- The Water phase devoted to the culture of this archipelago in the tions is a huge programme of entertainment, interesting in runs to September 22, with a multitude of activities on the Sea of Marmara, an hour from the city centre by ferry. These itself but also because many are held in venues often closed Bosphorus. The main exhibition on the schedule, Europe on wooded, traffi c-free islands are a popular summer getaway to the public. One such is the beautiful 6th Century church the Bosphorus, is an invitation to performance and plastic for city residents.

as part of the Capital of Culture pro- Williams partnered with architect Mark U2hitthecity gramme. It is expected to be the biggest Fisher to create the extraordinary design. Emergencynumbers Legendary rock band U2 will perform concert ever staged in the country The stage set makes use of a at the Istanbul Atatürk Stadium on 6 The 360º tour takes its name from massive four-legged supporting rig that Police 155 September as part of their 360º tour. the extraordinary stage that gives an has been nicknamed “The Claw” and Ambulance 112 One of the world’s greatest rock bands unobstructed view of the band from any has set a world record for the largest Fire 110 is making its Istanbul – and Turkish - debut angle. Long-time U2 Show Director Willie concert stage structure. General emergency 115

EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT 11 Caracas, and the 1986 in . FIBAHallofFame Her greatest memories? “The Olympics, certainly,” she said. “And I think being inducted into the (FIBA) Hall of Fame. I never expected that and it’s great.” After Miller’s playing days ended, she began to share her exper- tise of the game as a reporter and analyst. She has worked for a Miller’stalegoeson string of broadcast organisations. “I was just blown away she was about ten years old and Would she consider a return to some direct involvement in the game? when I was told I was at school – only this time she was “I suppose I would love coaching in the WNBA though not college going to be in the FIBA not allowed to play with boys. basketball,” she said. “But really, I have to say I just love what I am Hall of Fame.” “I tried for the boys’ team but doing now.” The reaction of bas- the coach would not allow it,” she ketball superstar Cheryl said. “I kept trying and fi nally the Miller who led the United coach said to me ‘Ok. If you can States team to the gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics beat me one on one, you can have CherylMiller in Los Angeles. a spot.’ I beat him but I still never It was a typically modest response from the woman who at one got in the team.” point was called “the best player in the world – woman or man.” Undeterred, Miller pro- Born: January 3, 1962 in Riverside, California Nationality: American Miller, who has carved a second career for herself as a TV gressed rapidly in the game at Height: 1.87 m reporter, said: “I have to say I never saw myself as the greatest school and at college. Position: Forward player. I thought of myself as pretty doggone good, but I also She played at Riverside Enshrined as a player in the FIBA Hall of Fame on 12th played against some equally good players and they had such an Polytechnic High School September 2010 impact on my life.” (1978–1982) where she led her team to a 132-4 record and was Clubs: If the new FIBA33 “street basketball” form of the game is an awarded the Dial Award for the national high-school scholar-athlete • Riverside Polytechnic High School (1978–1982) attempt to celebrate the real spirit of the game, then Miller would of the year in 1981. She was the fi rst player, male or female, to be • The Trojans recognise it. Her career began in the backyard, playing against her named an All-American by Parade magazine four times. • Phoenix Mercury brothers Reggie and Darrell, who both went on to become sports At the University of Southern California (USC) she scored 3,018 National Team Highlights: stars in their own right. career points (fi fth all-time in NCAA history), led the Trojans to • NCAA titles 1983, 1984 “I started when I was fi ve or six, playing ball with my brothers, at NCAA titles in 1983 and 1984 and was a four-time All-American. • Named NCAA Tournament MVP least when they let me,” she said. “There I was with a ball as big as Miller’s path to the top culminated in her leading the U.S. team to the • Gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles me up against my brothers. You had to fi ght in that environment.” gold medal at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. She was also • Gold medal teams at the 1983 Pan American Games in Caracas, Venezuela Miller said her interest in the game fi rmed up into ambition when a member of the gold medal team at the 1983 Pan American Games in • Gold medal at the 1986 Goodwill Games in Moscow Individual Highlights: RollofHonour • Dial Award for the national high-school scholar-athlete of The induction ceremony for the 2010 Class of the FIBA Hall of Fame will take place on 12 September at the Swissotel in Istanbul and during the year in 1981 an on-court presentation at the Final of the FIBA World Championship at the Sinan Erdem Dome. All inductees will be present. • Street & Smith’s national High School Player of the Year in1981,1982 • Nominated for the James E. Sullivan Award in 1986 • Enshrined in the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfi eld, Massachusetts in 1995 • Inducted into the inaugural class of the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, Tennessee in 1999 • The Broderick Award as the Female College Basketball Dragan Arvydas Natalia Zassoul- Gomelsky Evgeny Player of the Year YUG Kicanovic YUG ITA USA Sabonis LTU BRA skaya RUS AUS RUS • Frst player to be named an All-American by Parade 1922 to 2008 magazine four time – PLAYERS • Named Naismith College Player of the Year three times • Scored 105 points in a game against Norte Vista High – COACHES School – TECH OFFICIALS • Scored 3,018 career points (fi fth all-time in NCAA history) – CONTRIBUTORS • Earned the Jim Bain Konstantinos George Killian Hans-Joachim Ernesto Segura Abdoulaye Seye Al Ramsay CRO USA Dimou GRE USA Otto GER de Luna ESP Moreau SEN AUS

Countryprofile–Egypt NBAlinkstoboostgameinEgypt Abdalla Shalaby, Director General of the Reaching Out: What challenges to the growth Egyptian Basketball Federation talks to of basketball do you face? Reaching Out: What is your federation hoping Reaching Out about the latest developments Shalaby: Mainly in the area of fi nancing and to achieve at this Congress? and challenges to the game in his country. encouraging more media coverage. Shalaby: Participation and approaching other federa- tions to increase the links and exchange of expertise. Reaching Out: Can you outline the progress and Reaching Out: What steps are you taking to key developments in your federation in the four overcome these challenges? Reaching Out: What action taken by the 2010 years since the last FIBA World Congress? Shalaby: We have an agreement with specialised Congress could most help your federation? Abdalla Shalaby. Shalaby: We have been focusing on many agency for marketing and we have been contacting Shalaby:Providing customised action plan for aspects of the game such as turning the league major sponsors in the country. We also launched a developing the game in Egypt. players to join the game at the club level. We also to professionalism, allowing foreign players to public relations committee in the Federation. want to encourage more media focus on our game. join the league, focusing on the junior teams Reaching Out: How do you see basketball devel- and qualifi cation for three world cups, doubling Reaching Out: What can other federations learn oping in your country over the next three years? Reaching Out: Where do you see world basket- the referees’ income and contacting the NBA from your experience? Shalaby: Gaining more experience and exposure to ball in four years’ time? with a view to conducting annual camps in Shalaby: Maybe having the system we have for external levels of the game, increasing the income for Shalaby: More popularity and maturity - increas- the country. junior teams. professional basketball players and encouraging more ing competition.

1 2  EXTENDINGOURREACH-BASKETBALLTHEGLOBALSPORT