MIES (Switzerland) - The Players' Commission has tipped off the new 2023-2027 cycle with a highly productive first meeting at the Patrick Baumann House of Basketball. 

The 16-member panel, which is composed of current and former players from around the world, either congregated at FIBA Headquarters or were online for the meeting, with the gathering led by Chair Dirk Nowitzki. The renowned German legend is continuing in the lead role for a second term, while Deputy Chair Serbian star Sonja Vasic was also present at what was her first meeting in a new role. 

There was a wide range of topics covered during the discussions, with the initial focus mainly concentrated on a broader overview. This included the updated FIBA Strategy and its seven objectives, along with the role of the Players' Commission, basketball competitions, and the global calendar, including 3x3.

Moving forward in this new cycle, the Commission will also have dedicated and important areas of activity around Player Education, Player Pathways, and the Player Experience Program. The latter was something that was strongly focused on at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. 

The meeting was also attended by FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis. 

FIBA Players' Commission Chair Dirk Nowitzki said: "It's always an exciting feeling to be here at the start of a new chapter and knowing that the Players' Commission is ready to continue working and growing its positive influence on many important aspects of our sport. 

"It's also a responsibility, of course, and together as a group, we recognize the importance of making the most of the chances we have been given to do this work. We are looking forward to continuing to build on the momentum that has been gained over the last four years."

Deputy Chair Sonja Vasic added: "Being part of the FIBA Players' Commission is an exciting and unique opportunity to support players, as well as contributing to the continuous wider growth and popularity of basketball globally.

Yuko Oga, Players' Commission Member and FIBA Hall of Famer 

FIBA Players' Commission member Yuko Oga, who was recently inducted into the FIBA Hall of Fame Class of 2023 and has been a member of the Commission since 2019, said: "I am thrilled to be continuing my role on the Players' Commission and contributing to the development of basketball players around the world. Together, we are working towards creating the best possible environments for players to showcase their talents and achieve their goals, both on and off the court."

The duties of FIBA's Players' Commission include studying topics related to players of all age groups, proposing to the Central Board necessary measures to improve player conditions and protect their growth as both players and as role models for others, making recommendations on practices or activities likely to be impacting player interests, and offering feedback and advice for potential improvements to FIBA's various competitions.

FIBA's Players' Commission for 2023-2027 consists of:

Chair
Mr Dirk Nowitzki (GER)

Deputy Chair
Ms Sonja Vasic (SRB)

Members
Mr Kieron Achara (GBR)
Mr Carlos Arroyo (PUR)
Ms Roseli Do Carmo Gustavo (BRA)
Ms Hamchetou Maiga-Ba (MLI)
Mr Dejan Majstorovic (SRB)
Mr Nicolo Melli (ITA)
Mr Marko Milic (SLO)
Ms Yuko Oga (JPN)
Mr Kirk Penney (NZL)
Ms Jenni Screen (AUS)
Ms Mfon Ydoka (NGR)
Mr Nikolaos Zisis (GRE)

FIBA