Ryan Richards decides to switch from TeamGB to Jamaica ahead of London 2012 Olympic Games
by Alex Hoad
Sittingbourne basketball star Ryan Richards is at the eye
of an Olympic storm after defecting from the Great Britain set-up
to join Jamaica ahead of the London 2012 Games.
The former Medway Park Crusaders star - who was drafted by
NBA giants the San Antonio Spurs in 2010 - ended the season playing
in the Georgian SuperLeague in a bid to prove his fitness and form
before the Olympics.
However the 6ft 11inc forward has decided to swap TeamGB for the
nation of his father’s birth after winning seven senior caps last
year.
The 21-year-old confirmed to the KM Group: "I’m not involved
with GB anymore," but question marks remain about his eligibility
under FIBA rules having represented Britain at senior level as well
as under-20s.
British Basketball’s performance director Chris Spice said:
"Clearly Ryan is a talented athlete. He’s been with both GB and
England for quite some time. We’re disappointed that he’s made that
decision. But we have to move on."
Great Britain were left to seek reinforcements for their
21-strong squad the start of their pre-Games camp in Houston,
Texas, this week.
It remains to be seen where Richards will play next season
having spent 2011/12 in various European leagues, he however
confirmed: "I’ll be heading to Chicago to get ready for next
season."
11/06/12
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