Hidayet Türkoğlu retired from the NBA last week following a 15-year career with six clubs, including the Los Angeles Clippers ©Getty Images

Hidayet Türkoğlu, who played in the National Basketball Association (NBA) for 15 years, has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF), it was announced today. 

The 36-year-old, the first Turkish-born player in NBA history, had announced his retirement last Friday (November 13) following two seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers.

They were his sixth club during an NBA career that started at Sacramento Kings and also included spells at San Antonio Spurs, Orlando Magic, Toronto Raptors and Phoenix Suns.

A long-time member of the Turkish national team, he won silver medals at EuroBasket 2001 and the 2010 FIBA World Championship, both of which took place in Turkey.

Türkoğlu's appointment was unveiled by TBF President Harun Erdenay, who had been carrying out the chief executive's role. 

Erdenay had been captain of the Turkish team that won the silver medals at EuroBasket in 2001 and was general manger of the squad that in 2010 finished runners-up in the World Championships. 

“In addition to his fantastic NBA career, nearly every summer Hidayet represented Turkey on the national team and inspired millions across our country,” Erdenay said.

“As CEO Hidayet will continue to serve Turkish Basketball, and our Federation will benefit from his experience and leadership.”

Hidayet Türkoğlu (left) is welcomed into his new role as chief executive of the Turkish Basketball Federation by its President Harun Erdenay
Hidayet Türkoğlu (left) is welcomed into his new role as chief executive of the Turkish Basketball Federation by its President Harun Erdenay ©Turkish Basketball Federation

Drafted by the Sacramento Kings 16th overall in 2000, Türkoğlu was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player for the 2007-2008 season after averaging 19.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and five assists with Orlando.

In 2008-2009 he helped lead the Magic to the NBA Finals.

In 309 games representing Turkey in international competition he scored a total of 3,475 points.

At EuroBasket 2001 he averaged 15.5 points per game on the way to the podium.

At the 2010 FIBA World Championship he captivated Turkey as team captain, leading the 12 Giant Men with 12.3 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists.

In recognition of his performance Türkoğlu was named to the FIBA World Championship All Star Five.

The only blemish on Türkoğlu's career was in 2013 when he was banned for 20 matches after testing positive for methenolone, an anabolic steroid he claimed he had been given by a Turkish doctor without knowing it was banned. 

"Here [at TBF] I'm going to do everything I can for our people and youth," Türkoğlu said.

"I'm someone who gives a lot of importance to Turkish sport. My wish is for there to be Turkish basketball players around the world, and that they represent us in the best way possible.

"We have to put forward a vision for our young people."

Türkoğlu’s work will focus on Turkey’s national teams, the country's professional leagues, and sponsor relations.



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