GB U20s Beat Netherlands

By Sam Neter on June 16, 2013

GB U20s took game 1 of their two game series against the Netherlands on Saturday night, with a 65-56 victory in Wales.

Billie Lucas had 15 points to lead GB, Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby had 11 points, Shequila Joseph finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds, whilst Flo Ward added 8 points and 5 assists.

“After a busy training camp we were really excited to welcome Holland u20s to Cardiff to play in two test games just 2 weeks prior to leaving for our tournament in Bulgaria on 1st July,” commented Head Coach Matt Johnson.

“Game 1 gave us the chance to continue to develop a really exciting brand of GB Basketball against a true Div A level team (Holland u20s reached the semi final last summer and return 7 players again this year.)

“We have seen significant progress in this team over the few camps we have been together and the most impressive part is how unselfish they are playing and are prepared to sacrifice their own glory for the benefit of the team.

“For us to to keep a team with the talent that Holland have on the floor to 56 points is a testament to the commitment that this group have already made to defending together with enthusiasm and energy.

“Although we are pleased with the progress we are making we are aware that playing well in a European tournament over a period of time to attempt to regain promotion is still our aim.”

Johnson went on to single out Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby for her leadership shown on the court.

“I would like to congratulate Harriet Ottewill-Soulsby on her first game as an u20 Captain. Harriet joined the group after helping the senior team prepare for their Eurobasket tournament and has come back into camp with u20s with a professional focus and a very healthy attitude towards practice and preparation that she has witnessed first hand with the Senior women.”

GB will now play the Netherlands in game two at midday today.

Box score.

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