Gilas SEA Games roster may blend PBA, collegiate standouts
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Brazil’s NBB gets first female coach in Jelena Todorovic
A few days ago, Jelena Todorovic made history by becoming the first female head coach in Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB)—Brazil’s top-tier men’s professional basketball league.
At just 31 years old, the Serbian-Australian tactician becomes the first woman to lead a men’s pro team in Brazil and the second youngest head coach in NBB history. She was officially appointed by Fortaleza Basquete Cearense, who proudly announced:
“HISTORIC! Jelena Todorovic is the new Head Coach of Fortaleza Basquete Cearense!”
Photo Courtesy: Jelena Todorovic IG
“I'm here not only as a coach, but as a representative of my family, my people, and my country,” Todorovic said upon signing with Fortaleza. “I am fully committed to leaving a meaningful and lasting mark on Brazilian basketball—one that goes beyond wins and losses and reaches the heart of the community.”
Before her groundbreaking appointment, Todorovic served as Senior Operations Manager of the EuroLeague Head Coaches Board and built a strong international résumé. She previously coached at Fenerbahçe, was part of the Greek National Team staff, and has worked as a personal development coach for elite athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Patty Mills, Josh Giddey, and Nick Calathes.
“I'm here not only as a coach, but as a representative of my family, my people, and my country,” Todorovic said upon signing with Fortaleza. “I am fully committed to leaving a meaningful and lasting mark on Brazilian basketball—one that goes beyond wins and losses and reaches the heart of the community.”
More than making history, Todorovic hopes her journey will inspire:
“If my journey can show even one young girl that her dream is possible, then I’ve already won,” she added.
Her hiring represents not just a personal milestone but a moment of transformation in South American basketball.
The question now: will other teams or leagues follow suit?
