James Metecan Birsen ('95) is one of the big names of the U-16 Türk Telekom Tournament. The forward has been the best player of Turkey in this first round, sending the team to the semi-finals behind 12.2 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists in only 24 minutes. The prospect, currently playing with Fenerbahce Ulker, has talked with Eurohopes. 2.02 Birsen, with Turkish father and Irish mother, explains that "I've been playing better the last three days". Today, 11 points, 15 rebounds and 2 blocks in the important win against Russia.
Birsen can play in many positions, from 1 to 4. The prospect says that "I like to grab the rebound and take the ball up as a playmaker", and he is clear about what he expects: "First of all, win the tournament. And after that, maybe earn the MVP". We asked him what player is surprising him in Gaziantep: "My teammate Kartal Özmizrak”.
