Events / Editor / 29 August 2007 /

Great Britain's basketball team have two crucial qualifying games coming up in September, with betting punters having to decide whether they can overcome Albania and Belarus.

The first test for Chris Finch's side and those seeking a basketball bet is on September 1, when Team GB entertain Albania at Meadowbank. Betfair customers eyeing a bet should take note that Great Britain have already beaten Albania in their Group B away fixture, winning 69-72 last September.

Opponents Albania are yet to win a match in their opening four attempts and the minnows performances are likely to see Great Britain start as odds-on favourites for this encounter.

With the Scottish fans likely to be turning out in their numbers at the Edinburgh venue, Scottish Rocks forward Julius Joseph could be seen as a key figure for betting customers.

Those checking the odds should also consider that Britain's sole NBA star, Chicago Bulls guard-forward Luol Deng could also feature having made his debut at the end of 2006.

Following on soon after the Albania clash is a qualifier against Belarus, with more betting opportunities for the clash in Minsk (September 5).

The two sides met in September last year, when Belarus won by a point on British soil (68-69) and that tight encounter is likely to be reflected in the match odds for the rematch.

Losing just one of their four games to date, Belarus will provide a stern test for Team GB and with the majority of the support the home side could head the betting.

Qualifying for Eurobasket 2009 in Poland will be a major achievement for Great Britain, as they set their sights on making a major impact at the 2012 Olympics.

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