England Under-18s got their 2013 Future Stars tournament off to a solid start with a 68-55 victory over London United-Harefield Academy on Thursday evening at Surrey Sports Park, Guildford.
The outcome never looked in doubt, as England jumped out to a big early lead and remain in control throughout as head coach Steve Bucknall rotated players often and evenly spread the minutes.
“I think they’re a little bit rusty, just preparation wise in terms of getting here; it’s never good to come to a tournament and play a game straight away,” said Bucknall after the game. “But I was pleased with the first unit, some of the execution was pretty good. Fitness was a concern with some of the players and also we’re trying to work on a few things and wanted to see that happen in the game but we didn’t see it so we’re a long way away.”
Ben Lawson had an extremely efficient 15 points to lead England, whilst Mo Soluade, who joined the team from Spain last week had 15, predominantly on jumpshots.
Kavell Bigby-Williams added 9 and a number of big blocks, whilst Luke Nelson finished with 6. Elvisi Dusha had 20 lead London United-Harefield Academy.
Looking ahead to the rest of the tournament and what he is hoping to get out of it, Bucknall added:
“Looking to evaluate one or two more players, the squad is not picked; we’ve got 13 here, so decisions have to be made. And also not to show too much, because everybody’s trying to scout! It’s all about preparation for the big competition at the end of July so we’re trying to work towards that.”
With the last-minute withdrawal of Germany, the tournament is now in a round-robin format, with the schedule for the remaining days as follows (free entry to spectators);
Friday 28th June
12:00 London United Harefield Academy v Bosnia & Herzegovina
14:00 Croatia v Sweden
16:00 Bosnia & Herzegovina v England
18:00 Oveido Baloncesto Scouting Session
20:00 England v Sweden
Saturday 29th June
13:00 Sweden v Bosnia & Herzegovina
15:00 Croatia v England
17:00 Sweden v London United Harefield Academy
20:00 Bosnia & Herzegovina v Croatia
Sunday 30th June
15:00 3rd / 4th Place
17:00 Final
Thoughts?
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