BRNO (Czechia) - An energetic and memorable Players' Workshop is in the books at the FIBA U17 Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 after Aleksandra Crvendakic facilitated an event that was met with exceptional enthusiasm from those present. Also moderated by Kim Gaucher, Head of FIBA's Players Unit and with participants provided with translation, the sessions all received outstanding engagement. This included a palpable mix of fun being experienced by those present, alongside absorbing the key messages. There were more than 20 contributions from individual players who all voluntarily took to the microphone to express their opinions to their near 200 peers during group discussions. This was particularly lively after being presented with some challenging scenarios that any aspiring baller might face on their basketball journey.
After a brief introduction and overview of the impressive career posted by Serbian ace Crvendakic, which included a EuroBasket Women title and Olympic bronze medal, the attention switched to the headline theme of turning talent into a pro-career.
This included an oversight of the myths and realities that young players may face when looking to become professional players. There were discussions about how talent is not necessarily the most important factor and how success can be built on small daily habits rather than one big moment.
There was also a focus on how education is important not only for post-career life, but also during a professional career. Crvendakic explained how education is a big driver of success both on and of the court.
The concept of having a strong support system was also flagged as critical, with players encouraged, where possible, to have people around them who can shape the future positively, inspire growth, and listen, as well as give advice.
Another hugely valuable discussion took place around how having clarity can be key. Players know what they want, what they require to improve, and how they can make better decisions.
The latter involved the most intense engagement, with all players asked to consider scenarios around difficult 'real-life' choices. Players were encouraged to share views on topics ranging from social media use and professional development to contract decisions and personal responsibility involving integrity matters.
The session also highlighted resources available to players, including guidance on working with licensed agents and support programs designed to protect players.
This involved responding appropriately to suspicious contact and the importance of reporting any concerns through the appropriate channels provided by FIBA, such as the recently launched FIBA Speak Up Platform.
"It was interactive and I think we all had a lot of fun together," said Crvendakic.
I think it is important for them to know what it takes to become a professional and the importance of having a support system because nobody can do it all alone - you need people around you.
"It's important to have good listeners and those who can balance encouraging you and also telling the truth when you need it, even if it is sometimes difficult. "I feel that young players underestimate the importance of education, not only for after basketball but also during the time they are playing basketball."
She continued: "Basketball is not forever. It is a small part of our journey and I feel they need to enjoy. They need to develop themselves through education, to enjoy that they have the best possible job, potentially playing basketball, which is something they love. Not so many people get that chance in life. "When I stopped playing not that long ago, all I thought about was how I missed the girls, the chemistry that we had, and especially with the national team. These are the memories I have and years later if I am travelling the world, I see friends.
Crvendakic concluded by saying: "It's not about the results, it's about the people that you remember and the places that you went."
The workshop participants were also encouraged to follow and engage with @fibaplayers to help connect with, to share, and grow the players' community globally. FIBA