He made his professional debut in the TB2L with Genç Telekom during the 2008-09 season.

On 18 October 2011, Sertaç transferred to Tofaş Bursa on a one-year loan deal till end of the 2011-12 season.

[2] On July 1, 2021, Şanlı signed with FC Barcelona of the Spanish Liga ACB and the EuroLeague.

[3] On July 6, 2023, Şanlı amicably parted ways with the Catalan powerhouse.

Şanlı represented the Turkish national team at the EuroBasket 2017, and the 2019 FIBA World Cup.