Galatasaray GM Omer Yalcinkaya outlines the club’s ambitions to join NBA Europe, reflects on leaving EuroLeague, and weighs in on Ergin Ataman’s chances of winning another trophy in Abu Dhabi. He also addresses the rivalry with Fenerbahce and comments on their structure.
In May 2025, Galatasaray reached a significant milestone by finishing as runners-up in the Basketball Champions League (BCL) Final Four held at the SUNEL Arena in Athens.
Despite a valiant effort, they were bested by Unicaja Malaga, who secured their second consecutive BCL title with an 83-67 victory.
At the heart of Galatasaray's resurgence is General Manager Οmer Yalcinkaya, a figure deeply intertwined with the club's history.
His association with Galatasaray began during his time at Galatasaray High School, the institution where the club was founded. He played basketball until 2000 and served as a basketball coordinator for the youth teams between 1993 and 1997.
Professionally, Yalcinkaya returned to Galatasaray in 2012, embarking on an eight-year tenure as General Manager. Initially overseeing the men's team, he later expanded his responsibilities to include the women's and youth teams.
Credit Galatasaray
Under his leadership, Galatasaray achieved notable successes: the men's team clinched the EuroCup in the 2015-16 season, defeating SIG Strasbourg in the finals, and the women's team secured the FIBA EuroCup in 2018.
After a brief hiatus, Yalcinkaya resumed his role as GM in December 2023. His return coincided with Galatasaray's strategic shift from EuroLeague Basketball to the BCL, a move reflecting a broader trend among European clubs seeking sustainable competition structures.
Galatasaray's BCL rise: A milestone year in the making
Galatasaray's recent performances underscore their commitment to this new direction. In the 2024-25 season, they reached the BCL Final Four, marking their fifth consecutive season in the competition.
This consistent presence highlights the club's dedication to establishing itself as a formidable force in European basketball.
Looking ahead, Yalcinkaya envisions Galatasaray as a potential participant in the proposed NBA Europe league, emphasizing the importance of aligning with evolving basketball landscapes.
"Our goal always goes up. But right now, we're in a transitional period. We don't see a future on the EuroLeague side," Yelicinkaya, 57, tells BasketNews.
"But now, with FIBA and the launch of NBA Europe, we see potential there. Our main goal is to be part of those 12 teams – or however many they choose – in NBA Europe. That's 100% our top goal."
In a comprehensive interview, the Turkish executive delves into his 15-year journey with Galatasaray, highlighting his progression from a youth coordinator to the General Manager overseeing all basketball operations.
He reflects on the club's strategic decisions, including the pivotal move from EuroLeague Basketball to the BCL, emphasizing the financial and competitive benefits of this transition.
Yalcinkaya discusses the significance of Galatasaray's consistent presence in the BCL Final Four and outlines the club's aspirations to join the proposed NBA Europe league, citing the need for sustainable growth and broader market engagement.
He also touches upon the importance of building a robust organizational structure, drawing inspiration from NBA franchises, and underscores the necessity of fostering local talent to ensure long-term success.
Finally, Galatasaray's GM comments on Ergin Ataman's affiliation with the club and the Turkish coach's chances of winning another EuroLeague trophy with Panathinaikos, while breaking down the long-lasting rivalry with Fenerbahce.
Strategic shift – From EuroLeague to BCL
**What excites you most about the NBA-backed European League?**First of all, NBA Europe wants to create a league with big cities: Madrid, Paris, maybe Istanbul.
**But Istanbul has many teams – Efes, Fenerbahce, Galatasaray… even Besiktas.**Yes. But I believe only
Sign up for our premium membership and access exclusive content for only 2.42€ per month
Not ready to subscribe yet? Unlock this page for only 1€
Giorgos Kyriakidis