ANKARA - Turgay Demirel, the President of the Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF), has had his contribution to the sport recognised with a prestigious award in his homeland.

He was crowned 'Sportsman of the Year' by a special panel for Spor &Spor Magazine in recognition of his accomplishments at a ceremony in the Turkish capital.

Demirel received his award as part of the "Summit of Sports Giants" Gala, where he was joined in attendance by Youth and Sport Minister Akif Cagatay Kılıc and other leading figures in the world of Turkish sport, including sports federation presidents, secretary generals, and athletes.

Speaking after receiving the honour, the FIBA Europe President and FIBA Vice-President reiterated the achievements of Turkish Basketball in 2014 - a year which witnessed his nation successfully host the FIBA World Championship for Women, with the national team reaching the semi-finals of the competition in Istanbul.

He said: "2014 marks the 55th anniversary of the founding of the Turkish Basketball Federation.

"Through Turkish teams' performances at the FIBA Basketball World Cup in Spain, the FIBA World Championship for Women here in Turkey, youth European Championships and professional leagues,we honoured our rich history and will continue to do so in 2015."

In addition to recognition of Turkey's leading sports federations, the gala also saw awards being presented for team and athlete of the year.

Demirel was elected as FIBA Europe President last May and is a former Turkey national team player.

FIBA