World basketball's new chief has urged Great Britain to lift their level before the London Olympics in 2012. "We need competitive men's and women's teams out of Britain, not just teams that are going to make up the numbers," said Fiba president Bob Elphinston.
"We also we want teams that have some longevity that will act as an incentive for boys and girls to play basketball."
Britain last played Olympic basketball at the 1948 London Games but have since failed to come through qualifying.
Elphinston said that England and Scotland, who compete separately at the Commonwealth Games, should make a "good team" as one.
"Fiba Europe have worked with us to ensure that Britain have changed their rules to enter into the European competitions in 2007, as opposed to England competing, because we want them to get ready and earn a spot."
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