British Basketball Performance Director, Chris Spice has revealed that Detroit Pistons guard Ben Gordon is “unlikely” to feature in the Great Britain squad at Eurobasket, starting on the 31st August.
Due to complications over his insurance, caused by the NBA lockout, Gordon’s debut for Great Britain looks to of been called off, once again for another year.
“It is difficult and it is complex and if I was a betting man I don’t think it is going to happen unfortunately,” Spice said, following Great Britain’s 96-70 victory over the Netherlands in Surrey earlier today.
Spice then almost reluctantly said: “We’ll know on Monday but it is looking unlikely.
“It’s not just the amount of money, but it’s the type of cover as well.”
Spice claims that if the NBA lockout was not in progress that Gordon would of no doubt played for the national squad.
“There is no question in my mind, if the NBA lockout wasn’t there, Ben would be playing for us this year because the cover would be in place.
“I’m 100% certain he (Gordon) will be with us next year if there is no lockout.”
This comes as a huge blow to coach Chris Finch as he prepares his squad in the final weeks leading to Eurobasket in Lithuania. GB have Chicago Bulls’ Luol Deng insured and he will compete at the Olympic Test Event before Eurobasket.
