FIBA CHIEF BAUMANN DEMANDS RETHINK

FIBA Secretary General Patrick Baumann has joined the chorus of disapproval of UK Sport’s decision to strip British Basketball – and the Great Britain national teams – of Lottery support.

With the domestic governing body expressing its thanks for the backing received during the initial 48 hours since the funding move was revealed, Baumann – also an influential member of the International Olympic Committee has confirmed his disappointment after previously bringing his influence to bear in securing a host spot at London 2012 for GB.

And he has called for a re-think, urging UK Sport to remain patient while the sport in Britain builds for the future.

“While their approach of attributing funds to the sports they believe have the most medal prospects for in 2016 make sense, they must understand that getting value for their investment in basketball will happen but that this takes more time – as it does generally for team sports,” Baumann said.

“Given the proper funds, we are confident that British Basketball can build on an already good base and achieve medal potential for Tokyo 2020.”

British Basketball’s board is to meet next Monday to consider the implications of the move, and whether to begin an appeals process.