GB and Reinking hailed by BBF chairman Watkins

Great Britain’s men’s team and their head coach Nate Reinking have been hailed by British Basketball Federation chairman Maurice Watkins following the resounding success of the EuroBasket 2021 pre-qualifying campaign.

Former GB player and assistant coach Reinking – head coach of Canton Charge in the G-League – took the reins just before the team’s home and away fixtures against Kosovo and Luxembourg.

He led them to a 100% record to claim a place in the qualifying tournament next year where they will face Montenegro, France and Germany.

Four wins – with two coming in Manchester – mean GB are on a record-setting seven-game winning run in Fiba competition.

Watkins said: “I want to congratulate Nate, his staff and the players on the brilliant job they did over the pre-qualification window.

“To come in as he did just before the training camp in Manchester, and to guide the team to the fantastic results he did in a short space of time, is testament to Nate’s skills, experience and commitment.

“And the players got the job done on court in fine style.

“It should give us confidence and belief ahead of the next round of games next year.

“Well done everybody – you have done us proud.”

Reinking, who succeeded Alberto Lorenzo last month, praised his players – and believes they will keep improving.

“It’s their team, their group and they came together unbelievably,” he said. ”They are getting better each game, they came out with great confidence.”