WBBL stars ready to shine on the international stage

Great Britain begins its quest to secure a spot at FIBA Women’s EuroBasket 2019 on Saturday at the National Basketball Performance Centre.

The qualification opener will see Israel visit Manchester before Great Britain travel to Northern Greece on Wednesday for their first away fixture.

Of the initial twenty strong training camp roster named by Head Coach Chema Buceta, ahead of the opening fixtures, thirteen players currently apply their trade in the WBBL. That, according to reigning WBBL Player of the Month Georgia Jones, is testament to the strength and depth of talent currently residing domestically at the highest level.

“The number of WBBL players in the squad shows the progress that’s been made; having international players in the league that have previously played overseas speaks volumes.

“Seeing each other on a more regular basis and being able to keep up with everyone has added a new level of familiarity when it comes to attending camp. It’s definitely helped cohesion.

“With having such a limited time before the first game, it is important that team chemistry is built early. Luckily we’ve got a head start on that front and a great group of players. It feels like we’ve picked up where we left off last time out.”

The buoyant mood in camp has been somewhat bolstered by memories of previous successes. Back in 2016 the National Basketball Arena played host to one of Great Britain’s most dramatic comeback victories.

For Jones, the crowd proved pivotal on that occasion and the veteran guard is once again looking forward to taking to the court in front of a partisan home crowd.

“That game was definitely the highlight of the last qualifying window.

“The crowd were amazing and really provided that extra energy we needed to secure the win. We are all looking forward to playing in front of a home crowd again and hopefully receiving the same support that was so vital last February.”

Behind the camaraderie resides a determination and drive that has the squad focused on the task in hand.

“The atmosphere within camp has been great so far. Having people see each other so much throughout the season definitely helps. It’s nice to work with each other rather than against,” declared Hannah Shaw.

“Practice has been intense and you can see that everyone’s focus is on a unified goal.

“I’m really looking forward to the games coming up as you can see this group will accomplish something really special.”

Tickets for the qualification opener are still available to purchase.

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