The Standard Life Great Britain under-20 men have begun their European Division B Championship odyssey with a 76-64 Group C win over Portugal in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Devon van Oostrum led all scorers with an impressive 26 points as Great Britain came from behind to claim victory. Ali Fraser secured 16 points, 11 rebound double-double for the victors.
Head coach Dave Smart, as expected returned to coach the youngsters.
After a slow opening, which saw GB fall behind 12-3 after four minutes of the first period, they fought back thanks to the all-round display of Connor Washington, as they narrowed the gap to 21-14 after the opening quarter.
The second quarter saw great defence from GB as they suffocated the Portuguese, but with only van Oostrum contributing to the score sheet, the Brits were still behind at half-time 32-28.
Portugal extended the lead to 36-28 to start the third quarter as they tried to mount a sizable advantage, but van Oostrum, along with Josh Owen-Thomas kept GB's interests going as they ended the third period, down 49-45.
GB held their nerve in the final quarter as they took advantage of a tired Portugal side to claim an opening day win.
For the box score click here.
