ISTANBUL (Türkiye) - Omer Kutluay seems like a never-ending crescendo at the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup 2026 as Türkiye's superstar guard provided yet another amazing performance to bring the hosts into the Semi-Finals.
With his team desperately fighting to get past France, Kutluay poured in 30 points to go with 11 assists and 2 rebounds in a 94-87 win to reach the Semi-Finals. His decision-making was spectacular throughout the game, as he did not commit a single turnover despite being the focal point of France's aggressive defense. In the closing moments, he played with the poise of a 30-year-old veteran.
"It's amazing, I don't know. I was dreaming about this shit for three years. It's amazing, just amazing," said Kutluay, who stepped up when his country needed him most. "Last year (at FIBA U16 EuroBasket 2025) I didn't feel like we were a team. Now we were a team. We support each other."
Trailing 87-81 with 2 minutes left, Kutluay converted a layup and bonus free throw, which also was the fifth foul on France's star forward Nathan Soliman. Kutluay followed that on the next possession with a three-pointer to tie the game 87-87.
Kutluay then drove to the basket for a layup to give Türkiye the lead and send the Basketball Development Center crowd into delirium. France would never regain the lead.
Kutluay has been amazing here in his home city, starting the tournament with 39 points, 7 rebounds and 9 assists in a magical double-overtime win over New Zealand. He then collected 26 points, 9 rebounds and 10 assists before tallying 32 points, 7 rebounds and 12 assists against Puerto Rico. Kutluay and the rest of Türkiye slumped a bit against Venezuela but he still had 15 points, 4 rebounds and 8 assists.
Now, he and the Turks are ready to battle Serbia for a spot in the Final.
FIBA