Turkish sports leagues launch new seasons in volleyball and basketball

SMS Grup Efeler Ligi Ziraat Bankkart Fenerbahçe Medicana Ülker Basketbol Gençler Ligi Turkish volleyball

The 2026-2027 SMS Grup Efeler Ligi volleyball season has commenced in Turkey. In the opening week, Ziraat Bankkart secured a decisive 3-0 victory against Fenerbahçe Medicana at the Burhan Felek Vestel Volleyball Hall. The match, which lasted 98 minutes, saw Ziraat Bankkart win sets with scores of 25-22, 25-21, and 25-22, led by strong performances from Yuki Ishikawa, Nimir Abdelaziz, and Trevor Clevenot.

The Efeler Ligi season features 14 teams from nine different cities, with Istanbul and Ankara having the highest representation. The regular season is scheduled to conclude on April 4, 2027.

In basketball, the Ülker Basketbol Gençler Ligi is also set to begin its new season on October 17, 2026. The men's category will feature 16 teams competing at the Ülker Infrastructure Halls within the Turkcell Basketball Development Center. The Turkish Basketball Federation noted that the league serves as a vital platform for developing young talent for professional and national team levels. The women's category is scheduled to start later in November.