National Team Begins Preparations for Serbia Clash

The Turkish National Men’s Basketball Team commenced preparations for their critical third match in Group C of the FIBA 2027 Basketball World Cup Qualifiers, facing Serbia away on Friday, February 27th.

Two-Hour Training Session Led by Ergin Ataman

The crescent-star players participated in a tactical training session lasting approximately two hours under the guidance of Head Coach Ergin Ataman. Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF) Deputy President Harun Erdenay and federation managers were present to observe and support the team.

Double-Header Against Serbia

Turkey will compete against Serbia in two consecutive matches during the February and March window as part of the FIBA 2027 World Cup qualification process. The first game will be played in Belgrade, followed by a home game in Istanbul.

FIBA 2027 Basketball World Cup Qualifiers Group C Schedule:

• Turkey vs. Serbia – February 27th (Away)
• Turkey vs. Serbia – March 2nd (Home)

Roster Details

The roster includes Berk Ibrahim Ugurlu, Can Korkmaz, Cedi Osman, Ercan Osmani, Erkan Yılmaz, Furkan Haltali, Furkan Korkmaz, Ismail Cem Ulusoy, Malachi Flynn, Metecan Birsen, Onuralp Bitim, Omer Faruk Yurtseven, Sertac Sanli, Sehmus Hazer, Tarik Biberovic, Yigit Arslan, Yigit Onan, and Yigitcan Saybir.

Shane Larkin is not included in the squad.

Previous Qualifying Success

Turkey achieved victories over Bosnia and Herzegovina (93-71) and Switzerland (85-60) in their first two qualifying matches, positioning them well in their pursuit of World Cup qualification.

Did you recognize?

Ergin Ataman is considered the most successful coach in Turkish basketball history and one of the most successful in Europe, having won three EuroLeague titles (2021, 2022, and 2024).

FAQ

• Who is the head coach of the Turkish national team?
  Ergin Ataman.
• Where will the first game against Serbia be played?
  Aleksandar Nikolic Hall in Belgrade.
• Is Shane Larkin on the roster for these games?
  No, Shane Larkin is not included in the squad.