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Türkiye Basketball Federation (TBF) President Hidayet Turkoglu has revealed that Istanbul is being positioned as a future destination for an official NBA game, marking a potentially historic step in bringing the world’s most influential basketball league closer to European fans.
Following meetings with NBA officials, Turkoglu confirmed that efforts are underway to stage a matchup in Türkiye similar to showcase games previously held in major European capitals.
Addressing the proposed joint league initiative between the NBA and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), Turkoglu expressed strong support for deeper collaboration, emphasizing the NBA’s global influence and commercial strength.
He described the NBA as “the world’s biggest organization” and stated that its involvement tends to add value wherever it operates. According to Turkoglu, if implemented with the right structure, the project could strengthen European basketball both economically and organizationally, helping clubs operate within a more sustainable financial framework.
Turkoglu also addressed ongoing debates surrounding the EuroLeague, arguing that the competition does not provide sufficient economic returns for participating clubs. He said the gap between club spending and revenue remains significant and suggested that teams may look more favorably toward an NBA-backed European structure if it offers a stronger financial model.
His remarks highlight growing discussions across European basketball about long-term sustainability and commercial viability.
The TBF president revealed that talks with NBA representatives took place during the Orlando Magic–Memphis Grizzlies game held in Berlin earlier this year. Building on those discussions, Türkiye is exploring the possibility of hosting an NBA game in Istanbul, while negotiations continue regarding preseason training camps involving NBA teams.
Among longer-term ambitions, Turkoglu indicated that organizers hope the United States men’s national team could hold a preparation camp in Istanbul ahead of the 2027 FIBA World Cup.
Alongside international plans, Turkoglu pointed to the strong performances of Turkish clubs in European competitions. He highlighted the consistent EuroLeague results of Fenerbahce Beko, the Basketball Champions League success of Galatasaray, and competitive campaigns by Besiktas and Bahcesehir Koleji in continental tournaments.
He expressed optimism that the upward trend seen in recent seasons would continue into 2026 at both club and national team levels.
Turning to national team matters, Turkoglu confirmed that Malachi Flynn, who recently obtained Turkish citizenship, has been included in the senior men’s national team candidate roster, adding that the federation believes he can make a meaningful contribution.
The men’s national team is preparing for key qualification games against Serbia in the lead-up to the 2027 FIBA World Cup, while the women’s national team will aim to secure qualification during upcoming matches scheduled to take place in Istanbul.
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