The incredible run of Great Britain continues as they reached the Semi-Finals of the FIBA Women’s EuroBasket for the first time with a thrilling 62-59 success against Hungary.
Led by Temi Fagbenle, a leading candidate in the tournament’s MVP voting, who racked up a stunning 29 points, they will also now play at one of next February’s Olympic Qualifying Tournaments for Tokyo 2020.
“It’s crazy the journey we have been on since the start of the modern era of GB back in 2006,” said Stef Collins of Cardiff Met Archers.
“The Olympics and all the Final Rounds we have been to. And the fact that two years ago, we exited in the first round. So now to be in a position to play for a medal and be in the Olympic Qualifying Tournament next year speaks leaps and bounds about this group of players,”
Meanwhile Jo Leedham who pulled down 12 rebounds and had 8 assists stated: “Just wow. I don’t know what to say, I am just so proud of this team. We came thinking we could do something. This team is just so special. We are just enjoying the ride and we play super-free. We have a chance to get a medal now as well.
“Chema is such a motivator. He is such a positive person that he just makes everyone feel good. It is so easy to play for him all the time and it is hard to find a coach that is like that. He has lifted the programme back up and is a breath of fresh air.
“This is all a bit surreal but everybody has bought into the concept of what we are about. We are enjoying the moment. We know we don’t play beautiful basketball. We do whatever it takes to get the win, although sometimes, we do make beautiful plays.”
Head coach Chema Buceta added: “This is fantastic but is an outcome of a great group of players. Teamwork and not looking at all the other things happening around us. Just focus and trust. We have to be very proud.”
Great Britain play France or Belgium in Saturday’s Semi-Finals. Follow via the official website and #EuroBasketWomen on all social channels.