Where Talent Meets Opportunity: Elite Basketball, World-Class Education

SHEFFIELD, UK – IDA and the B.Braun Sheffield Sharks & Hatters are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership to deliver an elite basketball programme, expanding the club’s current opportunities for overseas players to come to Sheffield. This initiative will combine world-class basketball development with outstanding education opportunities through IDA’s Academic Partner, the University of Sheffield. International male and female basketball players will have a unique pathway to develop their game at a high level while pursuing top-tier academic qualifications.

About IDA (International Development Academy)

IDA is a leading organisation dedicated to providing elite training and education opportunities for student-athletes worldwide. With ties across Europe and North America, IDA specialises in helping young athletes reach their full potential both academically and athletically. Through its partnership with the University of Sheffield, a globally recognised institution, IDA ensures that athletes receive a world-class education while developing their sporting skills in a professional environment.

The Partnership

Through this collaboration, IDA and the B.Braun Sheffield Sharks & Hatters will create a high-performance basketball academy, offering student-athletes the opportunity to:

• Train and compete at an elite level within the UK basketball system, with opportunities to play for the University of Sheffield & the Sharks/Hatters development teams.

• Earn internationally recognised academic qualifications through the University of Sheffield.

• Access top-tier coaching, facilities, and competitive opportunities.

• Experience a professional sports environment while preparing for future careers, both in and out of basketball.

In addition to welcoming international athletes, the programme will also serve as a bridging-the-gap development tool for domestic talent — providing UK-based players with a structured environment to transition from youth basketball into elite-level competition while continuing their education.

This partnership bridges the gap between sports and education, ensuring that young athletes no longer have to choose between pursuing their basketball dreams and securing a strong academic future.

Marko Backovic, from the B.Braun Sheffield Sharks & Hatters, said:
"This is a huge step forward for the club and for the wider basketball community in Sheffield. We’re proud to be creating a genuine pathway for international talent to develop both on the court and in the classroom. It’s a chance to showcase what Sheffield has to offer to the global basketball stage — while also supporting the development of top homegrown players."

Spencer Taylor, Director of IDA, added:
"Partnering with the B.Braun Sheffield Sharks & Hatters and the University of Sheffield allows us to offer a truly unique experience for student-athletes. It’s about providing the best of both worlds — elite basketball and world-class education. We’re thrilled to bring this opportunity to life for young athletes around the world and within the UK."

We are excited about the opportunities this partnership will bring and look forward to welcoming talented athletes from around the world — and across the UK — to Sheffield!

Further announcements will follow in the coming months.