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Betts calls time on GB career

Andy BettsGreat Britain big man, Andrew Betts has decided to call quits on his international career at the age of 33.

Betts, who won 23 caps playing for Great Britain and 39 for England before that, has chosen to spend more time with his three children. He leaves with the Great Britain set-up in its best position in recent memory, having qualified for the European Championships this summer in Lithuania – and with the help of NBA stars, Luol Deng and Ben Gordon, a shot of earning a spot at the 2012 Olympic Games.

“My decision to retire is based on my wish to spend time with my family. I am going to be 34 in May and my recent contracts have meant I have been playing away from my family and the summer is my time to be with my three children,” Betts commented.

“I think it’s time to let the younger guys have their turn with GB and I think I leave the team in the best situation it has ever been in with the best talent and also the most professional organisation the country has ever seen.”

Betts, born in Leicestershire, made his debut for England in 1996 against Slovakia, averaged 11-points per game. He made his mark at EuroBasket in 2001, where England reached the semi-final round of the tournament and eventually finished one win behind the Latvia, who finished eighth in the competition. Betts played in all nine England games, averaging 11.6 points and 9.3 rebounds. He recorded his career-high rebounding record of 17 in England’s 59-52 victory over Hungary. He averaged exactly 10.0 point-per-game as a Great Britain player.

His final duty as a Great Britain player was representing them at EuroBasket 2009 in Poland – where GB lost all three of their group games.

Great Britain coach, Chris Finch could not praise the 7’2 big man enough for his 13 years of service for England and Great Britain.

“It’s players like Andy that should make up every counties National Teams.His sacrifice, commitment, leadership and of course performance has been inspirational for our programme. I cannot personally thank him enough for all he has given to Great Britain and England,” Finch said.

Despite retirement from the Great Britain fold, Betts will continue to play domestically for Ukrainian side, Budivelnyk Kyiv.

As Betts, who turns 34 in May looks to the future; although disappointed he will miss the chance to play in the Olympics if Britain are granted their place, he is excited about what European basketball has in store for him: “Of course I’m disappointed to be missing the Olympics and also this summer’s EuroBasket but my level of disappointment is nothing compared to what my daughters would feel should I have to spend yet another few months away from them.

“I think I have a few good years left at the top level yet. As a veteran having the summers to relax and recuperate are a necessity if I am to continue playing.”

John Hobbs for TalkBasket.net

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