changing of the guard for gb women’s basketball

The Great Britain women’s basketball Head Coach, Chema Buceta, is stepping down by mutual consent following eight successful years in the role.  

GB women’s team captain, Temi Fagbenle, paid tribute to Chema:

“I am immensely grateful to Chema for what he has brought to GB basketball in his eight-year-term as our Head Coach. He brought an infectious positivity and fresh perspective at a time we needed it the most.

“He was – and still is – a respected figure on and off the court, and he helped to create a team atmosphere one looked forward to joining each competition window.

“I am grateful for our time together, and I know he will continue to pursue his endeavours courageously, just as he reminded us – time and time again – to do on the court. Thank you, Chema!”

Fiona Pimblett, Performance Lead for the British Basketball Federation, said:  

“We would like to thank Chema for his leadership and hard work over the years, and for the commitment and energy he has devoted to British Basketball. 

“He led the GB Women to an unprecedented fourth place at FIBA EuroBasket 2019, and also came within touching distance of qualifying for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

“Chema’s wisdom and knowhow have driven our improved position in the global rankings, and played an essential role in building the strong platform we now have for future success.” 

The recruitment process for a new Head Coach for the GB women’s team will begin in the New Year, with the assistant coaching roles to follow. 

As with the recruitment for the GB men’s team which took place in 2023, the process will be open and transparent. 

More information on all coaching roles will be shared on gb.basketball as soon as it is available.