\n<\/p>\n
For Evbuomwan and Williams, 24, this double-header on Thursday in Switzerland and then at home to Slovakia in Newcastle on Sunday is set to mark their GB debuts at senior level.<\/p>\n
But how the duo have been able to sign up for the latest fixtures is all about timing.<\/p>\n
Four of GB’s six first-round qualifying matches for the 2027 Fiba World Cup were in November 2025 and March 2026, which clashed with the NBA season.<\/p>\n
But with this window opening in between NBA seasons, as well as those of its European counterparts, the stars aligned for Steutel and his team.<\/p>\n
“In the season, guys in the NBA [and] the EuroLeague, we struggle to get. There’s very little ability to be able to do that,” added Steutel.<\/p>\n
“We’re right before the start of the season and our general manager has done an incredible job communicating with the Boston Celtics. <\/b>Tosan is closer to home now with Barcelona.<\/p>\n
“They’ve both been really supportive and want those guys to play, so [we’re] really excited.”<\/p>\n
GB’s coaching staff have long craved the opportunity to be able to cash in by adding recent NBA players to their squad.<\/p>\n
Dan Clark, who featured at the 2012 Olympics alongside two-time NBA All-Star Luol Deng, is now GB’s general manager and has stayed in contact with Newcastle-born Evbuomwan and Williams, awaiting the opportunity to be able to call on the duo.<\/p>\n
“It’s not just a ‘this window’ thing, it has taken years,” explains Steutel.<\/p>\n
“Tosan is someone who I’ve known for a long time and I’ve followed his journey. He’s someone who has communicated really well with us and Amari likewise. Dan Clark has been communicating with Amari for years.<\/p>\n
“We’re able to get the timing right now and get them in a GB jersey. It’s great for the team, but I think it’s great for British basketball on the whole.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n