Method: Using a field research approach allowed the researcher to observe the participants within their context and influential environment. Data collection involved interviews and observational fieldwork in formal and informal settings. Data were triangulated across four semi-structured interviews, artifacts, and the researcher’s journal containing the observations, and reduced through a constant comparison. Themes, codes and categories were identified, through the labeling of data. Purposeful inductive and deductive sorting, focusing, and reorganizing the data, allowed the researcher to draw final conclusions.
Analysis/Results: Six themes emerged: 1) IBCE training is effective and unique, 2) positive interactions direct the global language of basketball, 3) some things fall short in translation, 4) hospitality drives cultural exchange, 5) the convention environment and vendors were connectors, too, and 6) see you again next year!
Conclusions: The strategy of inviting international coaches to America for significant basketball training and interaction proved to be positive and worthwhile to all participants. Translation of technical language is important thus requiring translators who are familiar with basketball. Coaches expressed a strong desire to attend similar future events, bringing other coaches from their countries. Experiencing this cross-cultural event has great potential to impact coaching practices and the game of basketball worldwide.