England U16s Prevail Over Hungary in OT

Joe Pinchin/Leicester Riders

England Under-16s moved to 2-0 at the Division B European Championships with a 66-61 win over Hungary in overtime on Friday in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Despite England being in control the majority of the contest and holding a 17 point halftime lead, a furious fourth quarter rally saw Hungary score with 4 seconds remaining to tie it up and force OT.

“Growth comes from the ability to perform under pressure and close out the win with poise,” said Head Coach, Alan Keane.

“As we do with every game we devised a game plan but the challenging part is to bring it to life throughout the game. Full credit must go to all 12 players who not only brought the game plan to life but executed it with excellence throughout the game.

“Job done – now every ounce of energy goes towards tomorrow’s game. Side note, the support from the players families and Billy Beddow and Adam Davies in the stands is amazing.”

Back to back threes from Mate Okros – who finished with a team-high 15 points – in the final two minutes of overtime proved to be the cushion needed to pull out the victory, with Hosana Kitenge sealing the win at the line.

Kareem Queeley had 13 points & 7 rebounds, Richard Amaefule had another double double with 13 points and 12 rebounds, and Jacob Round joined them in double figures with 11 points, adding 5 rebounds and 3 assists.

Box score.

England return to action on Saturday, when they face Israel at 11:45am (UK time) as they look to improve to 3-0.

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