GBR - Brits' disappointment tempered by history making exploits

VENDESPACE (EuroBasket Women/FIBA World Championship for Women) - Despite agonisingly missing out on a quarter-final appearance at EuroBasket Women 2013 and even a potential shock berth at the FIBA World Championship next year, Great Britain head coach Damian Jennings isn't too downhearted.

In fact, the recently installed play-caller can look back on his rookie major tournament with considerable satisfaction, having made history by delivering the best-ever finish for Great Britain in the competition.

A last day win against Croatia left Jennings speaking about the shoots of growth for a nation that has the lofty ambition of continuing their long-term progress by challenging for a medal at the 2020 Olympic Games.

"We did make history, as a Great Britain side, even though we didn't make it to the quarter-finals," reflected Jennings.

"We got our first win in the second round at a EuroBasket Women tournament and we came out of with a 3-3 record.

“There will be very few people who won't be saying we shouldn't have got this far, or even a stage further."

Great Britain ultimately lost out on the small margin of their head-to-head record with the Czech Republic, despite finishing on the same number of points.

But, they at least signed off their time in France with a fine performance against the Croatians, headlined by Jo Leedham, who collected 26 points and almost landed a spectacular triple-double in the 85-79 victory.

The shooting guard will return to France at the end of the summer for another season of club basketball in EuroLeague Women with Bourges Basket and admitted it was tough going into their farewell contest knowing they couldn’t progress after other results didn't go their way.

"It was a really tough game emotionally” said Leedham.

"But, we pulled through in the end and we did our country proud.

"It's a little disappointing and bitter-sweet in the end for us."

Whist Leedham will continue to spearhead Great Britain in coming years, Kim Butler won't be lining up any longer after announcing she is definitely calling it a day.

Having reversed her decision to call time on senior national team duties after the London Olympics last summer, she had no regrets about lending a hand to new boss Jennings.

"I couldn't be happier than to have done it playing for Damian," said Butler.

"He's seen the road, and all the ups and downs."

Jennings must now focus on ensuring Great Britain can deliver a successful qualification campaign next year, when they attempt to punch a ticket for EuroBasket Women 2015 which will be hosted jointly by Hungary and Romania.

FIBA