Istanbul, Turkey, will host the debut of the Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Next Up camp for men, a collaborative effort by the National Basketball Association (NBA), the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), and the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF). Scheduled from August 26-29, 2026, at the Basketbol Gelişim Merkezi, this event signifies a new direction for the celebrated BWB program, returning to Istanbul for the third time. This initiative highlights Turkey's pivotal role in European basketball and its dedication to nurturing emerging talent. The camp aims to bring together 80 elite high school-aged male basketball players from diverse global backgrounds, providing them with unparalleled training and mentorship opportunities. This camp is a significant part of BWB's 25th-anniversary celebrations, marking a quarter-century of global basketball development and community outreach. It sets a new standard for identifying and developing young talent outside the U.S., paving the way for future stars in both the NBA and WNBA.
The BWB Next Up camp offers a comprehensive curriculum, including rigorous athletic assessments, movement efficiency drills, skill-building workshops, 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 game simulations, and essential life-skills seminars. These sessions will be led by a distinguished roster of current and former NBA and FIBA players and coaches. This year’s lineup features prominent figures such as Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson, NBA legend Vlade Divac, former Italian national team star Danilo Gallinari, NBA champions Brook Lopez and Khris Middleton, and Orlando Magic’s Jalen Suggs. This elite coaching staff ensures that participants receive world-class instruction and invaluable insights into professional basketball. The camp also serves as a platform for cultural exchange, fostering connections among players from various backgrounds. Beyond the on-court activities, the event culminates in an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding performers in categories such as MVP, sportsmanship, three-point shooting, and defensive prowess, celebrating both athletic achievement and personal growth.
Global Talent Development and Strategic Growth
The inaugural Men's Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Next Up camp in Istanbul, Turkey, marks a significant evolution in global youth basketball development. Held from August 26-29, 2026, this event, a joint venture by the NBA, FIBA, and the Turkish Basketball Federation, is part of the BWB program's 25th-anniversary celebrations. It represents a renewed commitment to identifying and nurturing top international male prospects, bringing together 80 high-school-aged athletes from around the world. The camp offers a holistic development experience, combining intensive athletic training with crucial life skills education, ensuring participants grow both as players and individuals. This strategic focus on international talent underscores the NBA and FIBA's dedication to expanding basketball's global footprint and creating pathways for aspiring athletes.
This initiative builds upon BWB's rich history of fostering future NBA and WNBA stars, with over 155 former campers having advanced to professional leagues. The selection of Istanbul as the host city highlights Turkey's esteemed position in the European basketball landscape, characterized by passionate fans and a proven track record of producing elite players. NBA Managing Director for Europe & Middle East, George Aivazoglou, emphasized the camp's role in strengthening basketball's momentum across the region. FIBA Head of Players Unit, Kimberley Gaucher, noted that the new format will expose young players to diverse styles of play, cultures, and perspectives, creating a unique learning environment. Turkish Basketball Federation President Hidayet Türkoğlu expressed pride in hosting the camp, anticipating its contribution to Turkish basketball's future and providing participants with an inspiring and unforgettable experience in Istanbul. This collaborative effort signifies a major step forward in cultivating the next generation of global basketball talent.
Elite Mentorship and Comprehensive Training
The BWB Next Up camp provides an unparalleled opportunity for young athletes to train under the guidance of some of basketball's most accomplished figures. The coaching staff comprises a blend of current and former NBA and FIBA players and coaches, offering a wealth of experience and knowledge. Participants will benefit from the expertise of individuals like Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson, legendary NBA center Vlade Divac, Italian national team standout Danilo Gallinari, two-time NBA champion Brook Lopez, three-time NBA All-Star Khris Middleton, and All-Defensive Team member Jalen Suggs. This diverse group of mentors will lead campers through a comprehensive program designed to enhance their physical, technical, and mental game, emphasizing fundamental skills, strategic play, and competitive spirit. The camp curriculum focuses on athletic testing, movement efficiency, skill development stations, 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 competitions, and valuable life-skills seminars.
This immersive training environment is meticulously structured to replicate the demands of professional basketball, pushing participants to refine their abilities and understand the nuances of high-level competition. Beyond the drills and games, the life-skills seminars are crucial, equipping young players with tools for personal growth, leadership, and resilience—qualities essential for success both on and off the court. The camp culminates in an awards ceremony that celebrates not only athletic achievement but also sportsmanship and leadership. Recognition for the Kim Bohuny Camp MVP, the Patrick Baumann Sportsmanship Award, the Three-Point Champion, the Defensive MVP, and the Playoff MVP encourages excellence and healthy competition. Nike, a long-standing global partner of BWB, will support the camp by providing apparel and footwear, ensuring that participants have the best resources to perform. The camp's extensive social media coverage using #BWBNextUp will also allow a wider audience to follow the journey of these promising young athletes and witness the development of future basketball stars.
