There is no greater challenge than playing competitive basketball on the world stage. With FIBA’s (the International Basketball Federation) World Cup hosting players from 56 Countries worldwide, opportunities to travel and play around the world are growing.
After the last few years, we are all looking to be inspired, and now there are some great choices to look at when it comes to exciting basketball tours. Not only can you find new friends and competition, but you can also learn about the rest of the world.
So, if your ball skills could do with a real challenge, we have some great suggestions for you. Whether it’s the mecca of basketball, the USA, the competition in Europe, or something unique closer to home, we can suggest a lot of great travel destinations for you to consider.
UNITED STATES –
Here you will be able to witness the world’s best players by going to NBA games, witnessing first-hand how basketball is played at an elite level.
The best training facilities in the world are in the US. Considered one of the best basketball training facilities in the world, Shoot 360 offers in person skills development with one-on-one coaching, using digital technologies to improve your game.
Your kids will be inspired, and you will be motivated to keep them learning as they can play in amateur tournaments at high school and college level.
Players could get the opportunity to travel to Los Angeles, California, and explore places like the La Lakers Training Facility, LA Rams Sofi Stadium, and of course, check out a few NBA and NCAA games live!
While your there, you could also check out Disneyland, Hollywood Studios, and the Kobe Bryant memorial. The US is the premiere destination for basketball players and there is a lot to choose from.
ITALY – Europe has a lot of choices when it comes to basketball touring and competition. Most of the continent plays by FIBA rules.
Italy had a professional league long before the formation of the NBA, so the countries love for basketball is well known. Famous players like Andrea Bargnani have attracted a lot of attention as well, with a playing style focused on strong teamwork and smart passing.
Touring here will fill your player with exciting games, and an endless supply of museums, historical landmarks and food. Check out great cities like Rome, Naples or Venice, where you can see famous destinations like the Colosseum, the Vatican and Pompei.
GREECE – Greece is ranked in the top 3 of all of Europe for basketball competition, and players here tend to be tall and play with a style that is more defensive. Given the popularity of the sport matching the number of successes Greek teams have had since the nineties, you can find a lot of opportunities to play amateur or university games in well-built facilities.
Plus, if you’re interested in history and politics, there is a lot to see around the country while you’re there. You could learn about the monument to democracy at the Parthenon, the ruins at Delphi or the witness spectacular views from the top of Mount Parnassus.
FRANCE – They produce effective technical players with tough defensive play. Soaring popularity in the last decade, coming off the success of female basketball players, as well as the production of many NBA exports, means the sport is having a boom time right now.
Tours here will consistently recommend Paris and Lyon, and while the spectacular museums, architecture and history of this country will enthral and inspire. Playing here will reward you with a unique appreciation for team play and community.
PHILIPPINES – Basketball is the number one sport in all the Philippines, having been formally introduced to the island nation by the YMCA in the early 19th century. The sport has grown in popularity with both amateur and professional leagues, introducing the world to star players like Kai Sotto (signed to Australia’s National Basketball League).
Playing against Filipinos usually means a shorter opponent, but they make up for it with high speed.
Tours to the Philippines include the bustling city of Manilla, beautiful beaches in Boracay, and the Puerto Princesa Underground River.
NEW ZEALAND –
Our closest neighbours are matched with a similar playing style to Aussies. In NZ, Basketball is now the second most popular school sport, meaning there will be plenty of challenge for young players looking to find a game there. Since it’s so close by plane, a shorter trip is possible to play in local tournaments.
You have the choice of the North or South Islands when you travel to these beautiful islands, with the North famous for Auckland and Rotorua, and the South famous for Queenstown and Milford Sound.
This brief tour should give you insight into the skilled players and unique scenery that you will encounter on your next Basketball tour. It’s a global sport which will challenge you and give you a unique insight into the world around us.