Short-Handed GB Unable to Overcome Russia in U16 Quarter-Finals

By Sam Neter on August 16, 2018

Great Britain Under-16s hopes for promotion came to an end on Thursday afternoon, as they fell 78-70 at the hands of Russia in the Division B European Championship in Sarajevo.

Following food poisoning spreading through the team on their off day, the squad was left with just 8 players to suit up and step up they did, as Cameron Hildreth went off for 28 points on 12/17 shooting, whilst Josh Uduje had 25 on 9/12 shooting. Amari Williams finished with 16 rebounds and 5 blocks but it would not be enough as Russia booked their spot in the Semi-Finals.

Josh Uduje gets into the lane and finishes the tomahawk! 💪🇬🇧 🏀 #FIBAu16Europe pic.twitter.com/Jn8g04ccai

— Hoopsfix 🇬🇧🏀 (@Hoopsfix) August 16, 2018

GB put up a valiant effort, hanging around for the majority of the game and playing until the final whistle. Despite Russia leading by as many as 18 early in the fourth, GB – behind the play of Uduje at both ends of the floor – did not give up, going on a 10-0 run over the final minutes and pulling to within 7 but were unable to get over the hump.

GB return to action tomorrow, as the quest for fifth place begins with their promotion hopes having been dashed.

Box score.

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