The success of the global basketball development collaboration between FIBA and the NBA has been recognized with the publication of a report celebrating 25 years of Basketball Without Borders (BWB).
Created in 2001 to identify and develop the world’s most promising young players, while promoting values, community engagement and positive pathways in sport, what began as a single camp in Europe has grown into a worldwide platform connecting elite youth athletes with the highest levels of the game.
More than 600 current and former NBA, WNBA and FIBA players and coaches have supported young athletes participating in the program. These players and coaches have been at the heart of BWB throughout its evolution, with many campers inspired to follow in their footsteps and eventually play at the elite level.
Supporting National Federations
BWB has also strengthened National Federations by supporting earlier talent identification and providing benchmarking against regional and global peers.
The program has provided young players with exposure to elite coaching, faster readiness for U16 to U19 competitions and a clearer pathway toward Senior National Team selection.
BWB has also had a positive impact on the NBA, establishing itself as a recognized global talent pathway.
The program’s impact on the WNBA is expected to grow significantly, with full gender parity in BWB in place since 2023.
More than a talent development program
Basketball Without Borders has also delivered a lasting social impact through life skills education and community engagement.
The program has helped establish technical standards across host countries, including training opportunities for coaches and referees.
The truly global reach of BWB stands out as the program celebrates its 25th anniversary, as do the outcomes highlighted in the report.
Key outcomes
- 84 camps held across 36 countries
- 4,939 participants from 152 National Federations
- 2,651 campers have represented Youth National Teams on the global stage
- 1,490 have gone on to play for Senior National Teams
- 112 participants have played in the NBA
- 13 participants have played in the WNBA
- 10,000 coaches trained
- 500 referees trained
- More than 150 life skills sessions
- More than 100 socially responsible activations
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