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The 22nd Basketball Without Borders Europe camp took place in Manchester from August 12 to 15, representing the first occasion the NBA and FIBA collaborated to bring the program to the United Kingdom.
This event gathered numerous highly skilled prospects from various countries, providing them the opportunity to train alongside current NBA athletes such as Ivica Zubac and Kevin Huerter, five-time NBA champion Derek Fisher, and renowned center and 2011 NBA titleholder Tyson Chandler.
Chandler, who was named NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2012 and also contributed to Team USA’s gold medal wins at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2010 FIBA World Cup in Turkey, shared his insights with young players and conversed with Eurohoops about his experience at the camp.
“I’m continually impressed by the skillset of young players from all corners of the globe. Being here to witness their capabilities truly surprised me. It’s a genuine pleasure to impart my knowledge to these young athletes because I understand the impact it can have. I know what it did for me. It’s been a rewarding experience overall. The camp serves as a fantastic platform for self-evaluation and inspiration. This year’s NBA showcases remarkable talent, featuring both current stars and retired professionals alongside coaches and referees. BWB excelled in organizing this event, ensuring it was more than just a camp; it aimed to inspire and cultivate the next generation. It’s been an incredible journey,” Chandler expressed.
He highlighted the significance of camps like BWB in shaping young players’ futures:
“Such initiatives are crucial for the evolution of basketball and vital for every young athlete fortunate enough to participate. Camps like these allow you to refine your skills. They offer a wealth of knowledge in a brief period. Players often return to their respective teams equipped to enhance their game. I believe participants come back transformed, possessing a newfound confidence irrespective of their previous standing.”
Chandler also noted that these camps facilitate personal growth beyond basketball:
“Through these experiences, lasting relationships are formed. The young players you compete with today will be your rivals for years to come, creating unbreakable bonds. I find myself halfway across the globe, yet I encounter familiar faces; it feels like discovering long-lost family. It’s a comforting sensation—like being reunited with your basketball family. The benefits of engaging in sports extend beyond the court—discipline, selflessness, and a strong work ethic are just a few. If you play sports, you understand the commitment and hard work needed to achieve your goals. This makes for a remarkable experience that assists kids not only in basketball but in their daily lives as they navigate their paths.”
The international aspect that defines BWB has greatly influenced the NBA in recent years, and Chandler believes it’s essential for the league’s future:
“I love it. The game is expanding globally and embracing diverse expressions. Each region offers a unique style of play. To me, basketball is an art form, and just like artists convey their visions differently, players from various backgrounds enrich the game. Observing athletes express their artistry in distinct manners is fantastic for basketball. The global game is evolving, welcoming talent from around the world, which enhances the sport. It’s inspiring players everywhere. Basketball transcends being just a game; it’s a force that unites people. For me, basketball has transformed my life positively and continues to be a wonderful gift.”
With seven of the last NBA MVPs being international players—Giannis Antetokounmpo twice, Nikola Jokic three times, and Luka Doncic emerging as a strong contender—the European trio showcases the remarkable influence of international players in the league.
“They’re phenomenal for our sport. Watching them play is a delight; each of their games is captivating in its own way. The competition is thriving. Historically, if I listed the top 10 or 15 players, the majority were American. Now, that list includes a significant number of international players, which is a beautiful evolution for the league since it fosters growth in the game. Jokic and Luka each bring something distinctly innovative to their styles. These players provide American players with fresh perspectives, and the game continues to evolve. We never know where the next revolutionary talent will emerge, reinforcing the necessity of a global game. When it seems impossible for the game to advance further, we’re reminded of its limitless potential. I’m eager to witness where basketball goes from here, and I’m committed to playing my part. I’m excited about the league’s future.”
Following his retirement, Chandler transitioned into coaching and has been a development coach for the Dallas Mavericks since 2021, closely working with Luka Doncic.
“Luka is one of the most impressive players I’ve encountered, both in games and practices. While we all admire his in-game performances, what stands out to me is his practice prowess; it’s not easy to amaze your peers. Luka showcases skills I’ve rarely witnessed in anyone else. After years in the sport, I can count on one hand the number of remarkable players who can surprise you like he does. I often refer to him as ‘Luka Magic’ because he reminds me of a European version of Magic Johnson. Luka embodies his generation, yet shares similarities with Magic, who played with both grace and intensity. Watching him is an absolute pleasure, and I have nothing but great things to say about him.”
Even though Chandler was taken aback by the high-profile trade that sent Luka to Los Angeles, he believes it will ultimately benefit all parties involved:
“I was just as astonished as everyone else regarding the trade. I believe it will pan out positively for both teams in the long run. However, my initial reaction was one of pure surprise.”
As EuroBasket approaches, Chandler reminisced about last summer and the Team USA’s experience at the Paris Olympics, where they secured gold but narrowly defeated Serbia and Jokic in a match regarded as one of the finest international games ever.
“I wouldn’t describe them as close competitors; they’re formidable. They’ve always been since my playing days. Argentina demonstrated this years ago with Nocioni and that entire squad. There has been a consistent upward trajectory in young athletes gravitating towards basketball since the Barcelona Games. I feel like the competition level is now a real toss-up. Naturally, I support Team USA and will always cheer for them, but even during my time with the team, I understood that we could face defeat, as the talent pool is exceptional. Today, the paradigm has shifted; I think Jokic stands as arguably the best player globally. We no longer possess the same dominant edge. We have to function cohesively as a team. I eagerly anticipate the resurgence of international competition; it’s bound to yield thrilling basketball,” Tyson Chandler concluded in his conversation with Eurohoops.
