International Trips
International Trips at Hangtime
Hangtime’s first international Trip was during the summer of 2022 to Switzerland. This was in collaboration with Infinitum Sports, a Serbian scouting agency. The camp extended over 5 days where some of the top talents of Switzerland and neighboring countries trained hard hoping to earn a scholarship through Infinitum’s network
SWITZERLAND
Hangtime’s first international Trip was during the summer of 2022 to Switzerland. This was in collaboration with Infinitum Sports, a Serbian scouting agency. The camp extended over 5 days where some of the top talents of Switzerland and neighboring countries trained hard hoping to earn a scholarship through Infinitum’s network.
Hangtime Basketball Academy flew out from Dubai with some of its most talents U16 players at the time led by Coach Kerim. Upon arrival to Geneva Airport, the players took a train over to Vevey; the city where the camp would be taking place. During the first day, the boys settled into the hotel and then went out for dinner. Hangtime’s players were excited for what was to come during the upcoming 5 days.
During day 1 of camp, the players got to meet the coaches and scouts. They met Coach Max from Serbia who is a well known skills trainer from Combo Guard Agency. Coach Max worked with top athletes and national team players for over a decade. Coach Max led the morning segment of camp assessing their skill levels. After lunch, the players got to meet the second coach at camp; coach Damon Archibald. Coach Damon had coached D1 in the states for almost 20 years after playing D1 basketball himself for four years and playing for the golden state warriors on a 10 day contract. Coach Arch came in with huge passion an energy working with the players during the afternoon sessions.
During this trip and over the course of five days, the players got to work hard and sharpen their skillsets while making new friends and compete with top caliber players from all over Europe. By the end of the camp, Hangtime Basketball earned its respect even in Europe and USA. Coach Damon Arch was impressed with the Hangtime’s player’s skill, competitiveness, and personalities. He offered two of Hangtime’s players (Ioannis Tryfonas & Daniel Bankes) scholarships to attend Bella Vista Prep School the following year. Coach Kerim was offered an assistant coach job at Bella Vista as well.
Daniel ended up taking the offer and signing with Bella Vista the following year.
Coach Kerim was later offered two other top prep school jobs which he respectfully declined. When asked why he simply responded “Someone has got to do it the right way here (Dubai)”.
Overall, Hangtime’s first international trip was a massive success. Being one of the first basketball academies in the UAE to connect its players with a global network and give them true exposure. However, this was just the first step for Hangtime; the following year took the concept of international exposure trips to a whole different level that the UAE has not seen.
Camp in Switzerland
Having Fun in Switzerland
SERBIA
After much anticipation and a long wait, Hangtime’s second international trip was announced on March 2023 which would be held in Zlatibor, Serbia. This trip was planned to be executed in a very different way. Given the high interest in Hangtime’s international Exposure camp, Hangtime booked an entire sports complex for its players and coaching staff. The plan was to have all players encounter 8 days of intense offseason training similar to how pros work alongside friendly games.
On July 27th 2023, Hangtime flew 52 players, 24 parents and 10 coaches over to Belgrade Serbia making it the biggest basketball academy international trip in the history of UAE. This was a challenging mission yet the coaching staff were well prepared and ready to execute this international program to perfection. Upon arrival, the players took a 3 hour bus ride to the top of the mountains where the camp would be held. After checking in, there was a campus tour where the players were shown around the facilities. Then, dinner was served. After dinner, all the players were invited to the bleachers for a camp briefing. This was where the international camp coaching staff were introduced. Returning after a spectacular camp in Switzerland was coach Max who would lead the skill training component of the program. He was assisted by coach Nikola, a former D1 player in the US and a current professional player in Serbia. Coach Milos (Hangtime Basketball’s) strength & conditioning trainer was assigned to lead the S&C segment in the weight room. Coach Kerim (Hangtime’s managing director & head coach) was assigned to lead the classroom component of the program. The rest of Hangtime’s coaching staff were assigned assistant coaching roles. Players were briefed about how the following week would go and handed their schedules respectfully and then sent back to their rooms to sleep and prepare for the camp to begin on the following day.
The following week definitely had a serious toll on players bodies; something they have never experienced before. It involved two skill training sessions per day as well as a weight room session and a classroom session. In many days, the players would also have additional activities such as tourism or additional friendly games. Yet the biggest challenge was not the training itself but rather adapting to the style of coaching. The coaching staff collectively agreed that all three components of the program are to be taken very seriously and to treat players like true pros. On the first day of camp at 8:00AM on the basketball court, the first wakeup call for Hangtime’s players occurred. As one of Hangtime’s 16U players made the same mistake three times in a row, coach Nikola simply kicked him out of the basketball court. It was a clear message to the players that there is no room for messing around.
Coach Kerim’s classroom segment involved very dense material on how to truly unlock your full potential as a basketball player. Doing so involves the mind! The classroom segment opened players eyes to the importance of controlling their mind and their thoughts before, during and after games. The classroom component included many fun exercises and assignments that allowed the players to further grasp the concepts being taught and implement them both on and off the court. Given that everyone was in a closed sports complex, it allowed players to put these practices to the test and get better at them every single day. The biggest takeaway for players from the camp after surveying them was learning the power of meditation and breath work. Players came to understand that such techniques go a very long way with calming the mind and controlling thoughts.
The strength & conditioning component led by coach Milos was also grueling on the players bodies. For the most part it was held in the weight room where younger ages did body weight training and older ages learned proper lifting techniques and pushed themselves to their limits. However, there were also a few surprises in store to truly push Hangtime’s players to their limits such as running outdoors and running up and down the bleachers stairs in the basketball arena. The biggest challenge was when the the team went out for a run at 5AM up in the mountains it was a true challenge given the early morning timing and the fact that it was only 9 degrees celsius. Yet getting to see the sunrise from the top of the mountains made it all worth it. Players finished off with a meditation session in the nature before heading back to the complex for breakfast and then get into their normal program.
The trip fell nothing short from fun and competition. It included a competition night of parents VS players as well as tourism trips to the biggest cave in Serbia, one of the tallest waterfalls in Serbia as well as climbing to the highest mountain point in the country by riding on the longest cable car in eastern Europe named the Golden Gandola. The players had a blast sightseeing Serbia. They also got to compete with different teams including Novi Pazar club and Kazakstan’s National team. This experience was also a much needed experience for Hangtime players to see that there truly is levels to this game and being one of the top teams in Dubai means nothing. In fact, the work being put in during the Serbia trip is the regular work load of most players in Serbia.
Finally, Hangtime’s parents program was also very dense including tourism in three different cities in Serbia. The parents had their own program with their tour guide and were moving independently. This was to push Hangtime’s players to being more responsible and handling their own business without their parents support. In summary, the parents got to enjoy a spectacular holiday while the coaches tortured their kids for a week!
The trip was a massive success. Players, parents and coaches all came back with unforgettable memories. Hangtime executed the biggest basketball academy international trip in the history of UAE flawlessly. Following that trip several academies from the UAE ended up following Hangtime going to the exact same complex and running similar camps. When Hangtime’s managing director was asked about this he replied “It means we are doing something right. We have always strived to be pioneers in youth basketball development in the UAE; thankfully we are able to have a positive impact not just on our players but on the game of basketball in the UAE.” A trip in the books of Hangtime as all the players looked forward to coming back to the UAE and implementing what they learned in the local leagues and competition.
Highlights
QATAR
In April 2024, Hangtime Basketball Academy set a new standard for international exposure trips by embarking on a thrilling journey to Doha, Qatar. This unique basketball camp was hosted by BE Basketball in collaboration with DME Basketball Academy from the USA, bringing together elite youth players from across the Middle East and beyond. With top-tier coaches like Coach Wesam El Sous, the head coach of the Jordanian National Team, and Coach Jarvis Dunter, the head coach at DME Basketball Academy, the camp promised an unparalleled opportunity for Hangtime’s 14U and 16U players to face intense competition and receive world-class coaching.
As Hangtime’s 18 players and 2 coaches touched down in Doha, the air was electric with excitement and anticipation. From the moment the players stepped onto the court on Day 1, they were immersed in the high-intensity environment of the camp. Kicking off with a rigorous skills assessment session, the players were immediately tested, not only in terms of basketball proficiency but also in terms of mental toughness. Under the strict guidance of Coach Wesam El Sous, known for his demanding approach with the Jordanian National Team, the drills pushed each player to their limits.
However, this assessment wasn’t just about skills—it was about character. Ben Smith, the founder of BE Basketball, highlighted what truly set Hangtime’s players apart: their professionalism. “The one thing that stood out was how professional they presented themselves,” he remarked. From firm handshakes to making eye contact, Hangtime’s players demonstrated respect and positivity that resonated throughout the camp. It was clear that Hangtime Basketball Academy wasn’t just about developing top-tier athletes; it was about shaping well-rounded, disciplined young players who understand the importance of how they present themselves on and off the court.
This sentiment was echoed by Igancio Rodrigues, the head scout for DME Basketball Academy, who commended Hangtime’s athletes for their professionalism, work ethic, and composure, both on and off the court. It became evident that Hangtime Basketball places as much emphasis on personal growth and character development as on skill development, a philosophy that truly set their players apart.
By Day 2, the intensity had ramped up. Players engaged in high-intensity drills designed to sharpen individual skills and enhance team chemistry. The focus shifted from basic techniques to more complex scenarios, with an emphasis on basketball IQ and understanding the nuances of the game. Small-sided games tested not only the players' physical endurance but also their ability to think quickly and make decisions under pressure.
Under the expert guidance of Coach Jarvis Dunter, the head coach at DME Basketball Academy, Hangtime’s players were challenged to elevate their games. Coach Jarvis, with years of experience developing players for top-tier collegiate programs, worked closely with the athletes to refine their offensive and defensive strategies. His detailed feedback helped the players understand not just the "what" of each move, but the "why"—the key to becoming a smarter, more strategic player.
The camp also brought in top-tier talent from across the region, with teams from Qatar, Jordan, Lebanon, and the Maldives competing alongside Hangtime’s players. This was no ordinary competition; it was a chance for Hangtime’s players to measure themselves against some of the best up-and-coming talent in the region. The level of competition was high, and Hangtime’s players rose to the challenge, embracing the opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow.
On Day 3, the players faced off in a mini tournament that showcased the culmination of everything they had learned throughout the camp. The stakes were high, but Hangtime’s athletes were ready. After two days of rigorous training and tough competition, they demonstrated their resilience, skill, and teamwork in a highly competitive atmosphere.
Hangtime’s 16U team secured an impressive 2nd place finish, while the 14U team clinched 3rd place in the mini tournament. These podium finishes were a testament to the players’ growth throughout the camp, not just as basketball players, but as young athletes who had embraced the challenges with discipline and determination.
The camp wasn’t just about competition; it was also about exposure. After the final whistle blew on the mini tournament, the eyes of scouts and coaches from top-tier academies were on Hangtime’s players. Their professionalism, skills, and attitude did not go unnoticed. Three standout players—Jad Kajjan, Omar El Zahhar, and Samir Moukaied—earned scholarship offers from DME Basketball Academy, a remarkable achievement that highlighted their hard work and potential.
The recognition didn’t stop at the tournament results. The respect Hangtime’s players garnered throughout the camp from international coaches and scouts spoke volumes about the academy’s commitment to developing top-tier talent. As Ben Smith of BE Basketball mentioned, “Hangtime’s players displayed a level of maturity and professionalism that sets them apart from others.” These qualities, combined with their basketball prowess, ensure that Hangtime’s athletes are ready for the next step in their journey.
As Hangtime’s players returned to Dubai after the camp, it was clear that this trip had been a major milestone in their development, not only as basketball players but also as individuals. They had competed against some of the best young talent from across the region and earned recognition from international figures in the basketball world.
For Coach Kerim, Hangtime’s Managing Director, the trip was more than just a chance for the players to compete—it was part of the academy’s long-term vision for basketball in Dubai and the UAE. “It’s not just about the wins or the accolades,” he said. “It’s about providing our players with the exposure and opportunities to grow—both on and off the court.”
As Hangtime Basketball Academy continues to provide its players with incredible international exposure and experiences, the lessons learned in Doha will resonate for years to come. The scholarship offers, the friendships forged, and the professionalism demonstrated by Hangtime’s players are just the beginning of an exciting future for both the players and the academy.
As Hangtime Basketball Academy continues to lead the charge in youth basketball development in the UAE, experiences like this trip to Doha are paving the way for future opportunities and international exposure. The academy is committed to providing its players with the tools they need to succeed at the highest levels of the sport. With more trips and camps planned in the future, Hangtime Basketball is on a trajectory toward greatness—one that will not only raise the standard of youth basketball in Dubai but also inspire the next generation of athletes across the UAE.
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BOSNIA
In July 2024, Hangtime Basketball Academy took its commitment to international basketball development to the next level with an intense and transformative camp in Bosnia. This 10-day, high-altitude exposure camp was a monumental step for the academy, designed to challenge the players both physically and mentally in ways they had never experienced before. Held in the breathtaking mountains of Bosnia, 2,000 meters above sea level, the camp hosted 35 players, 20 parents, and 8 coaches for a program that promised to be the most demanding and rewarding one yet.
This basketball camp was organized entirely by Hangtime Basketball, ensuring that it met the academy's high standards of coaching, discipline, and skill development. The camp featured training led by two highly respected figures in the basketball world: Luka Kralj, the head coach of the U16 Cibona Club and assistant coach for the Croatian National Team, and Victor Sandic, the head coach at Crvena Club for U12. These coaches brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the camp, ensuring that every player received world-class coaching throughout the 10 days.
Upon arrival in Bosnia, Hangtime’s players and coaches were greeted by the stunning landscapes of the Bosnian mountains, where they would spend the next nine nights and ten days pushing their limits. The challenging environment of the camp—combined with the high altitude—made this experience one of the most physically demanding exposure camps ever organized by Hangtime Basketball Academy.
The camp kicked off with an intense schedule designed to push players both mentally and physically. The first few days included basketball practices, weight room sessions, and classroom lectures that focused on every aspect of the game, from individual skills to team dynamics. The high-altitude setting tested the players' endurance, making the training sessions even more difficult and rewarding.
With a focus on physical development, Hangtime Basketball Academy made sure that the players not only honed their on-court skills but also gained strength and conditioning that would help them improve their overall athleticism. Coach Milos, Hangtime’s Strength & Conditioning coach, ensured that the players were properly prepared for the physical demands of the camp.
But the Bosnia Basketball camp wasn’t just about drills. It was about developing a winning mentality and a sense of team. The classroom sessions led by Coach Kerim, Hangtime's Managing Director and head coach, focused on mental toughness and the importance of basketball IQ. These lectures provided players with the tools they needed to improve their game on the court while also teaching them life lessons that would extend beyond basketball.
In addition to basketball drills, the camp included a variety of team-building activities to foster camaraderie and improve communication. Among the most memorable was the full-day rafting trip, which tested the players’ teamwork and leadership skills in a fun yet challenging environment. The experience brought the players closer together, allowing them to build trust and work as a cohesive unit—an essential part of becoming successful on the basketball court.
In addition to basketball drills, the camp included a variety of team-building activities to foster camaraderie and improve communication. Among the most memorable was the full-day rafting trip, which tested the players’ teamwork and leadership skills in a fun yet challenging environment. The experience brought the players closer together, allowing them to build trust and work as a cohesive unit—an essential part of becoming successful on the basketball court.
As the players progressed through the camp, the focus shifted toward competition. The friendly games and the one-day tournament allowed Hangtime’s athletes to showcase their skills against players from various clubs, testing their ability to perform under pressure. The competition was fierce, with teams from Bosnia, Serbia, and beyond, all bringing their A-game.
In these games, Hangtime’s players not only demonstrated their basketball prowess but also showcased the professionalism and team-first mentality that sets Hangtime Basketball Academy apart. The tournament brought out the best in everyone, and Hangtime’s players were able to rise to the occasion, displaying impressive resilience, teamwork, and basketball intelligence.
One of the most rewarding aspects of this Bosnia exposure camp was the recognition earned by Hangtime’s players. The competition, combined with their exceptional basketball skills and professionalism, did not go unnoticed by the coaches and scouts present. By the end of the camp, Hangtime had made a lasting impression on the basketball community, further solidifying its reputation as one of the top basketball academies in Dubai and the UAE.
While the players were immersed in intense training, the parents also had their own experience in Bosnia. Staying in a separate hotel, they enjoyed a tailored program that included visits to four cities in Bosnia, where they had the chance to see the country’s rich culture and stunning natural beauty. This allowed the players to focus on their training while their parents enjoyed a unique and enriching travel experience.
In addition to the basketball-focused activities, Hangtime Basketball Academy ensured that the players had time for sightseeing and tourism. They explored the famous Pliva Waterfalls and Pliva Lakes, which offered both a beautiful and serene contrast to the high-intensity camp schedule. These moments of exploration provided much-needed breaks for the players and allowed them to enjoy the cultural side of Bosnia while bonding with their teammates.
As Hangtime Basketball Academy players returned to Dubai, the Bosnia exposure camp marked a significant milestone in their development as athletes and individuals. The players had experienced one of the toughest training camps in the academy’s history, and they came back stronger, more focused, and more driven than ever before.
For Coach Kerim, this trip was another step toward Hangtime’s mission of developing top-tier basketball talent in the UAE and beyond. “This camp was about more than just winning games,” Coach Kerim said. “It was about providing our players with real-world exposure, developing their skills, and teaching them the mental and physical discipline they need to succeed at the highest level.”
The success of the Bosnia camp—along with the scholarships and recognition received by Hangtime’s players—further cements Hangtime Basketball Academy’s position as a leader in youth basketball development in the UAE. As the academy continues to expand its reach with more international trips and camps, Hangtime is poised to help its players take their game to new heights.
With each international trip and exposure camp, Hangtime Basketball Academy is creating opportunities for young athletes in Dubai and the UAE to showcase their skills on the world stage. As the academy looks ahead to more international basketball exposure programs, there’s no doubt that Hangtime’s commitment to excellence will continue to shape the future of basketball in Dubai and the UAE for years to come.
Tournament highlights
Players tourism
Parents tourism