Strategy, Leadership and Vision Aligned for the Future of the Game
Organized as part of the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF) Executive Education Program, the 5th International Basketball Management Seminar was successfully held on July 12–13, 2025 at the Basketball Development Center in Istanbul.
The two-day event, in collaboration with FIBA, brought together thought leaders, executives, and professionals from across the basketball ecosystem. As a licensed TBF B Category Manager, I had the privilege of participating in this high-level seminar alongside nearly 400 sports executives from Turkey.
Day 1: Organizational Strategy, Digital Transformation and Legal Insights
The seminar opened with welcoming remarks by Dr. Serhan Antalyalı, Secretary General of the TBF. The first day featured impactful sessions from key figures:
- Zane Jurjane – FIBA Senior Events Manager
“Winning the Off-Court Game: Event and Stakeholder Management” - Emre Botan Kümet – Director of TRT Spor
“Digital Transformation in Sports Broadcasting” - Av. Emin Özkurt – CAS Arbitrator and Euroleague Legal Advisor
“Contracts and Dispute Resolution in Professional Basketball”
At the end of the day, plaques of appreciation were presented to the speakers by the TBF.
Day 2: Leadership, Club Governance and Strategic Communication
Day two shifted the focus to personal development, club-level governance, and communication strategy:
- Mehmet Yıldırım Özel – Author and Leadership Coach
“Life is Within You – Be the Writer, Director and Actor of It!” - Derya Yannier – General Manager, Fenerbahçe Beko
“Strategic Management and Institutionalization in Basketball Clubs” - Cem Tanır – VP of Corporate Affairs, Hepsiburada
“Communication, Sponsorship and Sustainable Impact Through Sports”
Reflections and Key Takeaways
Held with the participation of hundreds of professionals, the seminar offered deep insights into the evolving role of basketball leadership. The following themes stood out:
- Diversified revenue models for clubs
- Institutional development and transparency
- Legal awareness and contract literacy
- Digital media and content strategies
- Sponsorships, communication and social impact
“Those who are strong off the court, win on the court.”
Event Info
- Dates: July 12–13, 2025
- Location: Basketball Development Center, Istanbul
- Organized by: Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF)
- In cooperation with: FIBA
Sait YARDIMCI
TBF B Category Manager
