ORANJESTAD (Aruba) – FIBA and Aruba are working hand in hand to build a stronger foundation for basketball in the Caribbean country. As part of the 2019-2023 FIBA strategy to "Empower National Federations" to reach their full potential,  the FIBA PLUS Strategy and Planning Program has been set in motion on the island.

The program will help the Aruba Basketball Bond (ABB) improve its capacity to organize, professionalize and commercialize its basketball activities.

Participants of the 2019 edition of the Aruba Basketball Bond National YouthTournament

The process consists of FIBA first holding talks with the ABB, and external stakeholders, to help the federation complete a situation analysis. This in turn will provide information for the ABB Board Members as they develop a strategy. The FIBA PLUS program will set performance baselines and benchmarks so the federation can measure its progress throughout the length of the program.

As the ABB defines goals, develops SMART objectives and details action plans for the next 18 to 24 months, FIBA will offer mentoring, videoconference workshops and tailored assistance. The ABB strategy will be re-evaluated on a regular basis.

ABB President Kenneth Vrolijk said: "Aruba Basketball Bond is grateful with the support we have been receiving from FIBA and now with the start of FIBA PLUS Strategy and Planning program we know that we will be on the right side for the improvement of basketball in the Aruban community. We want to thank the FIBA team for the trust and support given to our federation and the willingness to help in order to put Aruba basketball on the global map."

FIBA Americas President and FIBA Executive Committee member Carol Callan said: "With one of the main focus areas of FIBA for the cycle of 2019-2023 the development of National Federations, the FIBA PLUS Strategy and Planning program will provide the Aruba Basketball Bond with a high level of expertise, knowledge and practical guidance on each step of their strategic planning process. National Federations are the foundation of our sport and a key driver of development in each country. I look forward to seeing their progress."

FIBA