FIBA donates EUR 100,000 for flood victims

BELGRADE - The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has donated EUR 100,000 as aid to the flood-hit population in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.

"The three Balkan nations were devastated by floods and subsequent landslides, with more than 50 people killed and tens of thousands displaced after losing their homes," FIBA said.

"Daily life, including basketball, has been put on hold in the former Yugoslav countries, with venues such as Kombank Arena and Pionir Arena (in Serbia) - which typically would host among other things the games of Partizan Belgrade and Crvena Zvezda Belgrade - being transformed into refuge shelters for flood victims," said a statement on the FIBA website.

FIBA President Yvan Mainini appealed for unity in helping out the affected countries.

"We are extremely saddened to see the devastating impact of the floods which hit Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of those countries at this very difficult time," Mainini said.

Photo Tanjug/D. Peternek (illustration)