Veselin Matic, the esteemed head coach of the Indian men’s basketball team, has been dedicated to leading the team for a period exceeding four years. During his tenure, the team has demonstrated notable progress across various formats, including achieving pre-quarterfinal status in the 3×3 category at the Asian Games, as well as participation in the U-18 3×3 World Cup.
In a recent interview, Matic articulated his vision for the future of Indian basketball, specifically highlighting his focus on cultivating young talents. He underscored the imperative shift towards investing in emerging players, evident in the recent composition of Indian teams that places greater emphasis on younger athletes.
When queried about the growth of young players in the sport, Matic underscored the significance of cultivating a reservoir of youthful talent to elevate the calibre of Indian basketball on the global stage. He accentuated the necessity for sustained attention towards player development, fitness, and training, in conjunction with the amelioration of facilities to bolster the sport’s expansion within the country. Matic also conveyed optimism regarding the new leadership of the Basketball Federation of India and their endeavours to elevate the sport’s standards.
Matic also deliberated on the challenges associated with selecting players for the national team, particularly within the context of the Senior National Basketball Championships, which witnessed the participation of 64 teams. He expressed confidence in the selection process and the expertise of the selection committee in identifying promising players for the national team and forthcoming leagues.
In addressing the need for improved playing conditions and facilities, Matic acknowledged the constraints within the infrastructure, such as the scarcity of suitable courts for competitive play. He highlighted the federation’s initiatives to rectify these deficiencies and cited Chennai as a hub equipped with facilities of international standards for the advancement of Indian basketball.
Another notable aspect of discussion was the emphasis on fostering basketball at the grassroots level. Matic underscored the necessity for a comprehensive league structure, spanning from school-level to professional leagues, to nurture the growth of the sport at all tiers. He also emphasized the enduring commitment to coaching and player conditioning as pivotal components in enhancing the overall standards of Indian basketball.
Looking to the future, Matic conveyed his dedication to contributing to the progression of Indian basketball, notwithstanding the uncertainty surrounding his contract renewal. He emphasised the establishment of a competitive league and ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing coaching standards and player conditioning in the country.
In summary, Matic’s insights illuminate the concerted endeavours to fortify the groundwork and invest in the future of Indian basketball. With a steadfast focus on nurturing young talents, fortifying coaching standards, and enhancing infrastructure, the sport is poised for considerable growth and advancement in the forthcoming years.