The three-day tournament will see Britain take on Israel, whom they beat in the qualifying group last summer, Turkey and Slovenia, whom they will open their EuroBasket campaign against in Poland this September.

It will be the second time Britain play at The O2, which is due to stage the basketball tournament during the 2012 Olympics, after they beat the Czech Republic in their opening EuroBasket home game last August.

Head coach Chris Finch believes it is imperative to not only be hosting the tournament but also to gain an Olympic advantage.

He said: "We just feel we need to play as many games at The O2 as possible in the run up to 2012.

"We don't have a 'home' but we feel like it's home to us even though we have only played one game there.

 

"That was a great game and great atmosphere last year and it really set us up well for the next two home games.

"Being able to stage this tournament really shows the growth of the programme and that symbollicaly we are in a good position.

"It has been a long time since GB, or any of the host nations, has been able to host such a high calibre tournament.

"Slovenia are an Olympic standard team and Turkey are probably the dark horses for Poland while we know from last year that Israel are a tough side."

Game On At The O2 will be a mix of international passion and pride with the glamour of several NBA stars, including Chicago Bulls' Ben Gordon (pictured), who appear for Britain for the first time alongside his clubmate Luol Deng, as long as he recovers from the stress fracture which is currently sidelining him.

The 23-year-old Deng said: "It meant a lot playing at The O2 arena in front of our fans.

 

"It's always a great feeling to put on the GB jersey and represent our nation in a sport that we all love playing.

"I'll always be grateful for the opportunities this country and the sport of basketball has given me over the years and that always gives me an extra sense of pride when I step out on the floor before games.

 

"The O2 also provides our fans an opportunity to come out and watch us play right here in London.

"The tournament gives us a chance to go up against very talented and well organised teams in Europe.

 

"Also based on last summer's experience, I believe it will be a very exciting and fun weekend of basketball for all the teams that will be taking part.

 

"It's also the perfect opportunity for all basketball fans to get behind the GB team and support us all the way."