GB High Expectations for 2012 London Olympics

In Poland, GB has reached the second group stage and surpassed all the expectations. Out of six games, it has won just one game and has defeated experienced teams, such as Lithuania and Russia. Maher stated, “I have a lot more confidence for 2012. We can get better as a team if we develop our talent.”While addressing BBC Sport, the Australian coach said, “Everyone at GB Basketball is delighted with the campaign. To be able to compete with the teams we did was phenomenal. Our results were the height of our dreams.”

In the second round, GB has a thrilling encounter with Lithuania. During the final minutes, the team was leading with an instant victory after giving away defensive foul. Maher also said, “We should have beaten Lithuania. We could have beaten Russia - our lack of experience was shown up by their athletic ability. But we were able to compete.”

He further added, “To go to that type of competition and be able to compete with countries that have a strong tradition of basketball was great. This was a tournament of world-class teams and players - players that play regularly in the world's top teams.”

Since 1956, EuroBasket championship has been played, whereas basketball team of women has performed for the first time.

Maher said, “A lot of people expected us to be ambushed and get smashed by every team so our results were very pleasing. It would have been easy for the players to walk out on court and crumble against bigger team like Belarus and the Czech Republic. But they didn't. The players' attitude was really good. Our mentality shows we can become a force in basketball.”

In this tournament, some of the action packed performances will be given against most powerful European teams. Maher stated, “We were perceived as a real basketball-playing nation by the end of the tournament. The other teams were complimentary to us and I think we're seen as a legitimate team now.”

The most significant player of the Britain is Johannah Leedham. But, she would play limited role in the campaigning of team, as she was recovering from knee tendinitis.

With 12 points per game, the Chester born player is one of the leading scorers of GB. For more information and latest updates on 2012 London Olympics, you must log on to www.londonolympicstickets.com! Register to our sign up section and you would be provided with emails and newsletters related to 2012 London Olympics!