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Clark: Friends reunited for another GB mission

Dan Clark (right) in a practice session with Ashley Hamilton (left) and Jordan Williams this week. Image: Dom Gall

Great Britain centre Dan Clark insists he never gets bored of pulling on his country’s colours ahead of their opening FIBA World Cup qualifier this week.

GB begin their campaign against European heavyweights Greece in Newcastle on Thursday, and ‘Mr GB’ revealed he is relishing a swift return to Tyneside.

Clark has collected more than a century of international caps and was a part of the London 2012 Olympics side, but the feeling remains stronger than ever.

He told the Newcastle Eagles website: “Representing my country is one of the highlights — if not the highlight — of my career.

“Of course, getting good results makes the whole experience even better and reminds you why you’re working so hard and putting the hours in.

“But with GB it’s more than that. During the last four to five years we’ve managed to build a solid core of committed guys and it’s just great to spend time with them.

“We enjoy playing with each other, know how to get the best out of each other and share a passion for wearing that GB vest.”

Clark was a key player in Newcastle back in February 2020 when GB stunned the world of basketball with a big win against Olympic qualifiers Germany on Tyneside.

And the return of the senior men’s team to the Vertu Motors Arena on 25 November can’t come soon enough for one of the city’s biggest fans.

“I’m speaking on behalf of all of the players who were involved in last year’s EuroBasket qualifier when I say we loved our time in Newcastle,” added Clark.

“We loved being in and around the city and its people and of course we’ll never forget that win against Germany at the Vertu Motors Arena.

“It was a special night for everyone involved and we’re excited to be heading back.”

GB also face the Greeks in the EuroBasket 2022 Finals and Clark said: “We’re looking to lay down a marker this week.

“We know Greece will have a very different team next summer (when the likes of NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo will be available) but any win against the Greeks would be huge.

“It can give us a psychological advantage going into EuroBasket and sow a few seeds of doubt in the minds of the Greek players and their supporters.”

But tickets for GB v Greece HERE