FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 Elevates Player Experience Program

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023 has introduced an enhanced Player Experience Program, prioritizing the well-being and satisfaction of the players comprehensively, encompassing physical, emotional, and digital aspects of their World Cup journey.This initiative was set in motion following a recommendation from the Competitions Commission, receiving the seal of approval from FIBA’s Executive Committee. Substantial investment has been channeled into the revamped FIBA Player Experience Program, and its successful implementation has been evident in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia.

One of the central tenets of this program is a player-centric competition schedule, ensuring that participants need not undertake unnecessary travel during the event. Additionally, an extra rest day has been incorporated into the schedule compared to the 2019 edition.

Players have enjoyed top-tier services and accommodations at their designated hotels, featuring single rooms and access to state-of-the-art weight-lifting and fitness facilities, including a HyperIce Recovery Area.

Players Lounges have provided a relaxed and social environment, equipped with screens for watching tournament games, video gaming access, an exclusive ‘Barber’s Corner,’ and dedicated recovery stations.The dedicated staff at the hotels have ensured that player expectations were met, and in many instances, players experienced personalized local touches, such as tours, excursions, and bespoke gifts.

Marcelinho Huertas from Brazil expressed his gratitude, saying, “It was a pleasure to play in the World Cup in Indonesia. It is the fifth in my career and, as always, special for any player. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Indonesian people for their affection and support and also for the entire structure set up to welcome us, in addition to the volunteers, who were always very helpful. It’s been an amazing experience! Thank you.”Serbia’s Head Coach, Svetislav Pesic, praised the program, stating, “Everything is great and high level, basketball courts, food, hotel.”

Dairis Bertans from Latvia concurred, “I’ve been to many championships, so I can tell you that this is the best-organized tournament. The hotel, arena, logistics, and food are all at a very high level, and I’ve been enjoying everything.”

In addition to enhancing services for the athletes themselves, the Player Experience Program extended its reach to ensure that the family and close friends of players had access to premium tickets for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, culminating in Germany’s victory in Manila on Sunday night.