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The Great Britain Standard Life Men and Women squad dropped their final assignment in the 2011 EuroBasket Tournament, but both teams still finished on top of their respective groups to earn a slot in next year’s finals.
GB Men suffered a 75-66 defeat against Ukraine, but it was enough to secure the top spot with a 6-2 record, after their closest contender Macedonia was beaten by Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Pops Mensah-Bonsu ended his impressive stint in the tournament by scoring 18 points, to go with his ten rebounds, while Chicago Bull star Luol Deng chipped in 17 points and collected six rebounds for Great Britain.
Despite the loss, GB Men Head Coach Chris Finch praised his squad for what they had achieved and how they played in the tournament.
“We have a lot to be proud of. Not many people gave this team a chance to qualify and we did it through great effort. Our young players played well and gain immeasurable experience from this campaign.” Finch said.
“Next summer provides us with a chance to play against the best in Europe once again. I am looking forward to the 2011 campaign and I know the players are as well.” he added.
On the other hand, Jo Leedham had a great night but it was not enough as the GB Women Team loss in thrilling 70-66 match against Ukraine.
Leedham, who had a great performance all-tournament long, scored 19 points to go with her six steals and four rebounds.
Kim Butler tallied 11 points and nine boards, while Julie Page added ten points and nine rebounds for GB Women, which finished on top of Group B with a 4-2 record.
GB Women Head Coach Tom Maher was disappointed with how they ended the tournament, but was also impressed with what they displayed in the entire tournament.
“It was very disappointing, we could have won the game but we made too many bad decisions” Maher said.
“Nevertheless we shouldn’t detract from what the players have achieved this summer.” he added.
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