Krumesh Patel’s Great Britain Women react to EuroBasket 2027 qualifying draw
Great Britain discovered their opponents for the second round of qualification for FIBA Women’s EuroBasket 2027 in last week’s draw, with France, Ukraine and Luxembourg awaiting in group play.
It sets up a challenging but exciting pathway for the programme, as they look to build on the momentum generated in the previous qualification window and secure a place at EuroBasket once again.
Head coach Krumesh Patel welcomed the test ahead, highlighting both the quality of the opposition and the opportunity it presents for his group.
"I'm excited by the draw. It'll be a great challenge, especially with France in the group, but every game will be difficult. Ukraine and Luxembourg have shown they can compete at a high level. We now have to start preparing as soon as possible so that we can have a successful campaign and achieve our goals of qualifying for EuroBasket in 2027."
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Savannah Wilkinson, who captained the side in the most recent window which saw the team go 3-0 with wins over Switzerland, Austria and Norway to complete round one, echoed that sentiment, embracing the competitiveness of the group and the belief within the squad.
"The draw looks like a really exciting challenge for us. We’re up against three strong nations, which is exactly what you expect at this level, but it’s something we’re all really looking forward to. We have a great group with a lot of quality and togetherness, and with everyone fully bought in, along with the leadership and staff we have in place, I believe we can be competitive and successful in this group. It’s a challenge we’re ready to embrace.
“Being named captain of the senior national team for the last window was an absolute honour. It’s something I’ve dreamed about since watching the Olympic prep games back in 2012, so to have the opportunity to lead this group means a huge amount to me. To come away with three wins as captain, alongside such a committed group of players and staff, was incredibly special. I’ve really enjoyed the responsibility and the experience, and I’m very proud of what we achieved together in that window.”
Savannah Wilkinson captained the GB team in the March window. Image: FIBA
Shanice Beckford-Norton also pointed to the wider significance of the upcoming games, stressing the importance of continued progress and national support.
"The opportunity to qualify is great for us. At a time where British basketball is quite turbulent, our success in March shouldn’t be overlooked and the possibility for even greater success needs to be recognised. We need support from the entire country in every way possible for this next round of games in November. We won’t hold back, our foot is on the gas, we have our hearts set on a better future for the women’s game here."
Shanice Beckford-Norton with young GB team-mate Irene Oboavwoduo
Dominique Allen, who recently completed her first window supporting the team in an operations role after previously representing Great Britain as a player, reflected on her experience and the direction of the team.
"Being part of the programme in this new role has been incredibly rewarding. Having experienced it as a player, I know how much it means to represent Great Britain, so to support the team operationally in the most recent window was very special. I’m proud of what we achieved together and the environment Krumesh and the staff have built. Looking ahead, we know this is a tough group, but it’s also a great opportunity for us to keep building and push towards EuroBasket 2027. There’s real belief and togetherness in this team, and I’m confident we can compete and give ourselves a strong chance of qualifying."
With preparations already underway, Great Britain will now turn their focus to November’s fixtures, aiming to carry their momentum forward and take another step towards EuroBasket 2027.
Women's EuroBasket 2027 Second Round Group M Qualification - GB's fixtures:
Wed 11 Nov 2026: France v GB
Sat 14 Nov 2026: GB v Ukraine
Tue 17 Nov 2026: GB v Luxembourg
Wed 10 Feb 2027: GB v France
Sat 13 Feb 2027: Ukraine v GB
Tue 16 Feb 2027: Luxembourg v GB
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