STEUTEL HAILS SPECIAL TALENT ELLIS
Great Britain coach Marc Steutel praised Quinn Ellis as a special talent following Thursday’s win over Greece in the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 qualifier in London.
Ellis scored 15 points on 5/7 shooting, pulling down six rebounds and dishing out eight assists in the 73-72 win at the CopperBox.
But it was his aggression, fearlessness, defensive intensity, and smart shot selection that won over the Great Britain fans.
He led the team to an impressive victory from 17 points down in the first half, with a remarkable display.
“I was really proud of how he managed some difficult situations,” Steutel said. “Straight away after the game, Quinn was talking about some of the possessions that he would like back.
“But to be able for him to continue to grow and to continue to be an integral part of this team and for this group to grind out wins while there are still areas for his game to improve, that’s really exciting and special.”
Playing at an elite level with BKT EuroCup side Dolomiti Energia Trento, the 21-year-old Ellis is already wise beyond his years, but especially in international competition, everything is accelerated.
Ellis had to adjust but thrilled those who watched on Thursday. Steutel recognises that but still feels that, at his tender age, he has room to mature.
There was a lot of maturity in certain parts of his performance,” the GB tactician said.
“I think we all, particularly British basketball, have to understand where Quinn’s at. He’s playing at a really good level, and we’re really proud of him and his development. He’s a special talent for sure, but he still has to find a way to mature.
“With these windows, everything is accelerated, everything is fast, everything is dynamic.
“And Quinn’s ability to navigate that is special, so we’re excited for him and his future.
“Again, we have to understand where he’s at, with his age, and I’m not saying disrespectfully; I’m saying that his future is exciting, and I think he can continue to grow, so we’re excited to have him.”
Great Britain are next in action on Sunday when they travel to Greece. For more information, please follow Great Britain Basketball on YouTube, X and Instagram.