Yahya Başaran, who is representing Australia at the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup in Istanbul, spoke to an Anadolu Agency reporter.
Reflecting on his performances in the team’s first three World Cup games, Başaran said:
“I think I’ve played well, especially in the game against Serbia. Tournaments like this are very important for our future because they help us better understand the professional level of the game. Competing in this environment also helps us improve a lot. I’m very happy to be here. One of my long-term goals is to play in the NBA. Ultimately, that’s where I want to end up.”
The young player added that he looks up to NBA stars Nikola Jokić and Kevin Durant.
“What impresses me most about Kevin Durant is his shooting and his ability to do so many different things on the court. He’s definitely someone I try to model my game after. At the same time, I study Nikola Jokić’s footwork and try to learn from it.”
“I want to show how much I’ve improved”
The young center said that playing in the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup has been an incredible experience.
“We want to win a medal, and I think we’re having a really good tournament as a team. We’re excited. I want to do the best I can. I want to show what I’m capable of physically, and I want people to see how much I’ve improved. As a team, we’re very happy, and I’m proud of my teammates. We played especially well against Serbia. We share the ball, we play physically, and we’re enjoying it. We’re excited for the games ahead.”
The 17-year-old also explained how much playing in Australia has contributed to his development.
“I’m currently part of the Centre of Excellence, where I train and play alongside the best young players in Australia. Every day I’m improving there, and that’s showing in my performances. I’m developing in many aspects of my game. Being at the Centre of Excellence has been a very important step toward achieving my future goals. It brings together the best 12 players in the country on one team, and that has helped me improve tremendously. I feel like I’m getting better every day.”
