GB LOOKING TO BE A FORCE AHEAD OF NETHERLANDS CLASH
Great Britain‘s Carl Wheatle has a simple message ahead of their opening FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifier against the Netherlands in Newcastle on Friday.
“The message we want to deliver is that we want to be a force in this group,” Wheatle said.
“We definitely want to qualify for EuroBasket, and the best way to do that is to have a good start at home.”
First up is the Dutch team, ranked one place above GB in the FIBA World Rankings in 52nd. Czechia and Greece complete Group F.
In their own right, Friday’s visitors will aim to change their fortunes as they look for a 17th appearance at EuroBasket.
At the last EuroBasket, the Netherlands finished bottom of their group with five losses from five games; previously, they ended up with a 1-4 record in 2015.
However, with numerous Dutch veterans plying their trade in the Dutch league and Europe, most notably the FIBA Europe Cup, they will still pose a threat whoever steps onto the floor.
“We know the Netherlands are a good team, and we want to get off to a good start,” said Wheatle.
Friday night’s game also marks the start of a new era – of sorts – as long-time interim head coach Marc Steutel takes charge of his first game on a permanent basis.
Succeeding Nate Reinking in the post, Steutel already brings a wealth of knowledge to the international setup.
The veteran tactician is eager to get going at the Vertu Motors Arena, where his club, Newcastle Eagles, play their home games.
“We want to start the campaign in the right way,” Steutel said.
“We’re excited that we’ve had some really positive support from the Federation in terms of the last few months for scouting, planning and getting the team sorted, which is important.
“I’m excited with the commitment that we’ve had from the staff and the players.”
Despite the anticipation to begin training camp and hit the hardwood on Friday night, there is also that sense of being left in the dark.
With the Netherlands still yet to name a roster ahead of Friday’s game, GB are heading into the unknown even though they’re at home.
“You want to do as much homework as you possibly can, and I think at the start of these qualifying periods, there is a little bit of the unknown,” Steutel commented.
“We have to make estimated guesses on personnel, coach philosophy, and how you can adapt on the fly, and that is what we are preparing ourselves for in the Netherlands.”
Be part of Great Britain’s opening FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifier against the Netherlands on Friday night at 7:30pm by purchasing your tickets here.