Career: Efes Pilsen (Turkey-TBL, 1997-2000), Sacramento Kings (USA-NBA, 2000-03), San Antonio Spurs (USA-NBA, 2003-04), Orlando Magic (NBA, 2004-07). Drafted in the first round of the 2000 NBA draft (#15), by the Sacramento Kings.

Türkoğlu Is the best all-around player Turkey has ever produced. He started as a point guard but when he grew to 2.08 m, he became more of an all-around player. Hidayet is a good rebounder, a good passer and a great shooter which, put together with his size and quickness allows the 27-year-old to play just about any position on the court, with the exception of center. The only problem is that he hasn’t performed up to his capabilities in recent EuroBaskets. After 2001, he has rarely come close to his potential with the National Team and after a disastrous EuroBasket 2005 campaign he didn’t want to play in the 2006 World Championship in Japan. It is unclear if he ever wants to play for Turkey again. But he will have to prove to Turkish fans that he is capable of giving 100%, especially with a coach who built this team around effort. So if Hidayet Türkoğlu proves to not be fully committed, he might be omitted. Despite his unique basketball skills his dedication will be a deciding factor.