ISTANBUL (Türkiye) - Young players are receiving more and more attention nowadays and being asked for more and more - on and off the court. This year's players at the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2026 have received guidance on some of the matters they might face, both for now and in the future.
The life lessons were part of the FIBA Players' Workshop, which the teams attended on the first rest day in Istanbul. Teams got the opportunity to interact with two long-time European veterans who have played numerous times for their national teams: FIBA U17 World Cup 2026 Ambassadors Dairis Bertans and Semih Erden. The workshop was moderated by Kim Gaucher, Head of FIBA's Players Unit.
The workshop combined interactive activities with discussions on some of the key challenges young players may face throughout their careers.
Players were encouraged to share their views on topics ranging from social media use and professional development to contract decisions and personal responsibility.
Through group discussions, participants explored real-life scenarios involving career choices, online conduct and integrity in sport. The session also highlighted resources available to players, including guidance on working with licensed agents and support programs designed to protect players.
A key focus was raising awareness about match-fixing and betting-related approaches. Players received practical advice on how to respond to suspicious contact and were reminded of the importance of reporting any concerns through the appropriate channels provided by FIBA, such as the recently launched FIBA Speak Up Platform.
Bertans was happy to share with the players some of the things that led him to a career during which he played from 2011 to 2025 for the Latvian national team, including five FIBA EuroBaskets and the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. He also played 12 games in the NBA for the New Orleans Pelicans at the end of the 2018-19 season.
"The most important thing I wanted them to know is that at this point in their career, not to focus on contract or money or anything else, but enjoy practicing and enjoy playing basketball. If you do that now, the rest of it will happen," said Bertans, who also took third place at the FIBA U18 EuroBasket 2007.
The now 36-year-old told his story of joining Italian club Olimpia Milano in 2017. He had previously had the ball more in his hands, but was asked by the Italian club to be a shooter. Instead of complaining, he turned himself into an elite shooter.
"From what first looked like a situation where I was wondering, 'What am I doing here?' it turned out to be a great opportunity that I used to further my career," said Bertans.
Erden suggested the players take in the moment and use it for their long-term benefit.
"This tournament is very important for them, and anything and everything they are going to do here will be a big gain for them for their future," said Erden.
Representing Türkiye from 2005 to 2021, the 39-year-old competed in three FIBA Basketball World Cups, including a second place in 2010, and six EuroBaskets. He also spent two seasons in the NBA with Boston and Cleveland, and also played for Turkish powerhouses Fenerbahçe, Anadolu Efes and Beşiktaş.
"For every player, this tournament is hugely important. Playing for the national team is like standing in the spotlight, being exposed and being visible. They will improve their self-confidence and build an identity for themselves."
FIBA is committed to providing players with off-court education at a young age through these Players' Workshops, recognizing its importance in preparing them for life during and after their playing careers.
Gaucher said to the players, "At this age, anything is possible. Your career can take so many different forms. It's really great to bring in Dairis and Semih and learn from their stories and hopefully be able to impart a little about agent awareness, about match-fixing awareness, and some tips on what it takes to be a pro."
All of the players left with at least one message to consider down the road.
Bertans' transition into an elite shooter at Milan struck a major chord with Lun Jarc of Slovenia.
"That will stay in my mind so that if a coach expects something different from me. I will remember that for every bad thing, there is something good in it," he said.
Australian William Hamilton appreciated the chance to listen to past stars like Bertans and Erden. And in terms of lessons, he said: "You will go through hard times in your career, but you just have to focus on your game. And focus on what you can do for your team and the players around you."
And Venezuela's Julio Vasquez added: "To work on our careers, but also on our mindset. It's about taking steps now so we can have greater control over our future."
Mission accomplished for the Players Workshop.
FIBA