Today, FIBA has announced that both GB men’s and women’s basketball teams will be given automatic qualification to the London 2012 Olympic Games.

 Following the Central Board meeting this weekend in Lyon,

FIBA Secretary General Signs the "Say Yes to British Basketball" Vest

 the FIBA board members have voted 17-3 in favour of granting GB their host nation places in next year’s Games.

British Basketball’s Chairman, Bill McInnes expressed his happiness at the announcement: “I’m obviously delighted with decision which celebrates the efforts of both the teams. Without their fantastic performances and determination I would not be here today receiving this great news.

“We have some time to investigate with the home nations what the legacy of basketball in Britain will be. But for tonight we focus on the celebrations associated with the positive Olympic outcome.”

Standard Life GB player, Pops Mensah-Bonsu was in Lyon for the decision and said: “I am overjoyed. This is one of the best days in my career so far. I am so happy to have been given the opportunity to compete at the Olympics and to have our place confirmed. I’m so excited about 2012 I just want to go straight to the gym right now.”

Men’s Head Coach, Chris Finch said of the news: “We are obviously excited and relieved to know once and for all we will be part of this historic sporting event. I’m very pleased for our players, our board, the staff at British Basketball, all those at the various federations and for everyone in the British basketball community. Their hard work and dedication to support and grow the game has been duly rewarded.”

Women’s Head Coach, Tom Maher commented: “It is fantastic news from FIBA that the GB teams have been awarded their host nation places to compete at London 2012. We are very proud of what we have achieved over the last few years and to be given the opportunity to step on court against World’s best at the highest level of competition will be the highlight of an enormous amount of hard work to reach this position. This will be my fifth Olympics and I’m excited to be accompanying the GB women’s team at their first appearance.”

David Nish, Chief Executive of Standard Life, the GB teams sponsor, said: “Standard Life would like to congratulate both GB teams on securing their place at the Olympics. Both teams have performed brilliantly to qualify for the EuroBasket competitions this year and now for London 2012. Real credit is due to all of the players and coaching staff, and to British Basketball for their achievements to date. We are proud to be involved.”