GB U20s Go 2-0 Against Belgium With Second Victory

By Sam Neter on June 23, 2013

The Great Britain Under-20s secured their second consecutive victory over Belgium on Saturday night, as they won 65-56 in second game of the series in Bristol.

Without Devon van Oostrum, who was resting a minor ankle injury sustained in the opening game, Nick Lewis stepped up to the tune of 19 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist and 4 steals, whilst Rowell Graham had 10, and Matthew Don was a workhorse inside for his 6 points and 11 rebounds.

“I thought with Devon being out, our guys stepped up,” said head coach Doug Leichner after the game. “They had to take more of a role, either offensively, or defensively, and collectively they did a good job, so I’m happy with that progress. We took it as a challenge, and now when he’s healthy, it will do nothing but help us.”

Next up for the U20s is a trip to Helsinki to face Finland, before heading to Portugal for another two game series.

“Those are another two good preparation games for us,” continued Leichner as he looked ahead to next week. “You’re not so much concerned about results now as you are progress, but on the other hand, it’s always good to make sure they taste some success.”

Emmanuel Lecomte led Belgium with 15.

GB stats.

Notes

Asked what his biggest takeaway has been from the two games against Belgium, Leichner said he thought they have a chance to be a really good defensive team and despite their height disadvantage are able to rebound well.
GB Starters: Lewis Champion, Joe Hart, Rowell Graham, Raphell Thomas-Edwards, Zak Wells.
The were a lot of battles underneath in this one; all of the inside guys worked tirelessly to crash the offensive glass. Undersized, but a lot of heart.
Coach Leichner also added that in both Finland and Portugal, they are hoping to get out and see the city/experience the culture a little; he’s a firm believer in the players getting as much as possible out of the GB experience, both on and off the court.
Rowell Graham had the first dunk of the two game series, as well as the second…just (borderline layup lol).
Matthew Don put in a really solid performance, crashing the glass hard, getting to the line and finishing putbacks, as well as a couple of unexpected crossover/jab step ankle breakers!

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