Ülker, a prominent player in the food industry, has signed a wide-ranging three-year sponsorship agreement with the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF) to bolster the development of Turkish basketball. Announced at a ceremony held at the Turkcell Basketball Development Center, the collaboration includes the official sponsorship of the National Teams, the naming rights of the youth league, and the branding of training facilities. With this move, the company aims to add lasting value to the basketball ecosystem at both professional and grassroots levels.
Focus on Infrastructure: The Ülker Basketball Youth League
According to the agreement, the Basketball Youth League—a vital platform for discovering new talent—will be recognized as the Ülker Basketball Youth League for the next 3 years. The company aims to directly support the developmental journey of young athletes and promote the expansion of basketball across the country.
Additionally, three courts designated for youth teams at the Turkcell Basketball Development Center will be renamed as Ülker Infrastructure Courts. The facilities will carry the names of iconic brands: Ülker Halley Court, Ülker Go Ahead Court, and Ülker Çizi Court.
"A Strong Investment in the Future"
Ülker CEO Özgür Kölükfakı emphasized the company's commitment to supporting various sports branches, stating:
Today, while we are proud to stand by our Women's and Men's National Basketball Teams, we are equally pleased to focus our support on the infrastructure of Turkish basketball. This is not just an ordinary collaboration; it is a manifestation of a strong investment in the future of Turkish basketball, our children, and our youth.
Federation Highlights Shared Vision
TBF President Hidayet Türkoğlu pointed out Ülker's historical role as a reliable stakeholder in Turkish basketball:
Through this collaboration, Ülker strengthens our crescent-and-star jersey while providing invaluable contributions to our young athletes and infrastructure organizations representing the future of Turkish basketball. Ülker becoming the naming sponsor of the Basketball Youth League for 3 years is extremely precious to us.
Key Highlights of the Agreement
Sponsorship Duration: A total of 3 years covering National Teams and infrastructure projects.
Naming Rights: The Basketball Youth League is now officially the Ülker Basketball Youth League.
Facility Branding: 3 courts at the Turkcell Basketball Development Center have been branded to support youth development.
