Career: Fenerbahçe (Turkey Division 1, 1999-2000), NCAA (2000-2002), Pivovarna Lasko (Slovenia Division 1, 2002-2003), Efes Pilsen (Turkey Division 1, 2003-…)

Originally Albanian Kurtoğlu’s real surname is Kuqo. His father and grandfather are basketball idols in his home country Albania. Kuqo came to Turkey when he was 15 where he took Turkish citizenship and developed his career. But facing a choice of national teams he chose Turkey to compete in EuroBasket. And man is Turkey glad he did? In the past two seasons Kuqo has developed into a monster under the basket. Although he is a little bit undersized for the center position he makes up for it with his uncanny instincts and great fundamentals. He also has a decent 3-point shot which can surprise opponents. His back to the basket game improved greatly last season but he is still a below average rebounder.