Vertu Motors Arena – where GB have claimed back-to-back wins over Germany and Greece in their last two outings – has been confirmed as the host venue for February’s World Cup Qualifier versus Belarus.
Head Coach Marc Steutel and several of his players have previously praised the support in Newcastle, with the team holding a 100% win ratio in front of two sell-out crowds in the North East.
He said: "We’re really pleased to be back in Newcastle in February. We’ve had two incredible games there in recent times and I know the players feel comfortable there – it feels like a home venue back on British soil.
"It’ll be great for the team to see the amazing Newcastle fan base sell out another night, they’re been instrumental for us in terms of a home atmosphere and the players enjoy playing there so we’re looking forward to seeing as many fans there as we can!“
Tipping off at 7pm on Monday 28 February, the game will be GB’s fourth qualifier for the 2023 World Cup and the second in a February double-header with Belarus:
Steutel added: “We know it’s going to be a challenging window with back-to-back games against Belarus, playing in Minsk on the Friday then playing them again in Newcastle on the Monday. I know the team are looking forward to getting back together, doing all we can to have a successful window and keep some momentum going.“
Steutel’s squad enter the new year in record-breaking form, having picked up 12 wins from the last 15 games – a run of wins recognised by The National Basketball Heritage Centre as the best in the team’s history.
"It feels like home." 🇬🇧🏟️
— GB Basketball (@gbbasketball) January 14, 2022
We're heading back to Newcastle as @VertuArena is confirmed to host February's @FIBAWC qualifier versus Belarus. #BritishBasketball
Looking at the qualification standings, all four teams currently sit on three points in Group B with a record of 1-1. GB’s campaign started last November with a historic 78-69 win over Greece at the Vertu Motors Arena before suffering a defeat away to Turkey three days later.
As Newcastle Eagles prepare to once again convert the Vertu Motors Arena into GB’s fortress, Steutel was full of praise for everyone who plays their part in supporting the team, saying: “I want to thank the Newcastle Eagles organisation again and that’s everybody – all the staff and volunteers attached to the club who go out of their way to make sure we’re able to host events and games like this. It’s great fans get to see our guys – both those who play in the BBL and those playing further afield – play with pride and passion for GB.”
Tickets for the game will go on sale via the Newcastle Eagles box office on 24 January.
