British Basketball is utilising existing resources to meet the insurers demands for extra cover in the event of the Chicago Bulls star aggravating a back injury that they are refusing to insure.

 

The New York company used by the NBA to cover all its players when they represent their national teams had refused to insure the $80 million (£40 million) contract that 23-year-old Deng signed with the the Bulls last month because of a minor back injury he suffered last Novermber unless British Basketball paid a special premium.

 

If they had refused, then the Bulls under international rules could have refused to release him.

 

British Basketball Performance Director Chris Spice said: "Although no team is completely dependent on one player, we have concluded that this year's key first campaign in Eurobasket Division A would be heavily weakened by the loss of Luol as part of the line-up.

 

"We see no medical reason why the NBA insurers have demanded this completely new element to Luol's insurance but as their demand came so late and out of the blue, we have had no choice.

 

"We cannot say how this problem will affect his participation in future years but hope that the American parties will acknowledge the medical situation as we believe it to be and change their demands.

 

"For 2008, we are convinced that this is the best outcome for British Basketball, is the best use of our funds in the circumstances and highlights our commitment to make Great Britain one of the top basketball nations in the world by 2012."

 

Deng, who will shortly rejoin the British camp ahead of their opening match in the tournament against Israel in Tel Aviv on Wednesday, said: "Playing for Great Britain is very important to me and it is an honor to represent my country.

 

"Right now, players such as myself who are in the NBA can make a difference."

 

It means Deng will also be available for Britain's first home match, against Czech Republic at The O2 Arena, next Saturday.