GB U23 3X3 WOMEN BATTLE, BUT FALL TO 0-2 IN NATIONS LEAGUE

Great Britain’s women showed heart and determination but fell to a 0-2 record in Pool A of the FIBA U23 3X3 Nations League in Szolnok, Hungary, on Monday.

Heads held high, but lessons were learned for Great Britain’s women. Each game a chance to grow and be motivated for the next challenge.

“Stop one has presented us with the chance to face off against an experienced Polish team right from the start, followed by a rapid turnaround to play against the home team, Hungary,” said GB U23 3X3 coach Sara Hopkins.

“Our players are swiftly identifying areas within their control that can be improved while also showing positive aspects during our initial matches.

“We will review our film and are ready to build upon each game with a great group who understand the building process.”

Despite a promising beginning, GB lost 21-6 to a more experienced Poland side in game one of the day.

While Hopkins’ side matched their counterparts in the early going, a 12-1 run from the Poles swung the game firmly in their favour, with Jessie Ford providing the offensive spark.

Ford would finish with four points to lead Great Britain. Marta Stawicka paced Poland with seven.

Heading into their second game eager to impress, Great Britain fell into the same trap, losing their following game 21-6 to Hungary.

Katie Januszewska led from the front in the early going, scoring Great Britain’s first two points of the game, but it was after the first minute that Hungary switched gears.

The hosts went on a 10-0 run over three minutes to make it 13-2, which ended with back-to-back scores from Januszewska.

But by then, Hungary were able to answer back and seal the win with 3:25 to spare.

Januszewska scored all six of GB’s points with Dorottya Budacsik hitting 11 for the Hungarians.

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