My coaching journey has taken me across the globe, leading teams in high-level international competitions and contributing to player development in professional and semi-professional environments. These experiences have enriched my coaching philosophy, allowed me to represent Canadian and Turkish basketball programs on the world stage, and connected me with elite-level talent and organizations worldwide.
Head Coach – 3D Global Sports Men’s Basketball Team (Toronto, Canada)
2015 & 2016
In back-to-back summers, I served as Head Coach for the 3D Global Sports Men’s Team, a semi-professional Canadian all-star team that competed in elite invitational international tournaments in China.
- Guided the team through international competitions against NBA D-League teams, Lithunian “B” National team, Australian pro teams, and the China “B” National Team
- Achieved notable wins, including victories over China’s B National Team and Cairns Taipans (Australia’s NBL)
- Developed and implemented game strategies, offensive and defensive systems, and daily training plans throughout the tour
- Fostered team culture, professionalism, and international sportsmanship across a diverse roster of Canadian players
- Earned praise from players and organizers for my leadership, preparation, and integrity
“Coach Akser was the backbone of our team, leading us with confidence and class. His leadership elevated every player.” – Shane Nicely, 3D Captain and Canadian Basketball Veteran
- Featured by 3D Global Sports: Read More
Head Coach – University of Regina Women’s Basketball International Tour (China)
2017
As part of the University of Regina’s international development program, I led the Cougars Women’s Basketball Team on a highly competitive international tour of China, participating in prestigious invitationals against elite international programs.
- Scheduled and coached three separate international tournaments across multiple Chinese cities
- Faced opponents such as the China U19 Women’s National Team, Lithuania U20 National Team, and NCAA Women’s Select Teams
- Introduced daily tactical breakdowns, film analysis, and structured recovery and nutrition plans during international travel
- Enhanced athlete experience with cultural and leadership development through global sport exposure
- Strengthened the program’s international visibility and athlete readiness for USPORTS and professional play
Head Coach – U18 Boys Junior Program, Fenerbahçe Ülker Basketball Club (Turkey)
2002 – 2004
Before relocating to Canada, I coached at Fenerbahçe Ülker, one of the top professional basketball clubs in Europe. As Head Coach of the U18 boys’ teams within their elite development system:
- Recruited and developed over 100 elite athletes, many of whom went on to compete in Turkey’s top professional leagues and internationally
- Led daily practices focused on advanced skill development, game IQ, and European pro-style basketball systems
- Worked within a professional coaching staff and contributed to a vertically integrated development system connecting the junior academy to the men’s senior team
- Learned and applied top-tier European coaching methodologies, combining tactical discipline with player-centric growth
fatihakser.ca 