Whizz-kid Walshe makes his mark for England on international debut

Former Tring School pupil Evan Walshe made his mark for his country as he was chosen to play for the England U17 basketball team at an international tournament in Cherbourg, France.

England claimed bronze at the Cherbourg U18 Tournament after edging a dramatic double-overtime third/fourth playoff with Anjou BC.

“Overall, I believe the tournament was a great learning experience for our guys,” said head coach Stephen Barnes. “They gained an appreciation for the physicality and how mentally challenging European and tournament basketball is.

“To see the growth of us as a team - from the first game where we lost the game in the last two minutes, to the final game where we came from behind and went on to win in double over-time, is special, and a feeling they will hold onto for a long time.”

England closed out the tournament with a tough 82-76 play-off victory over Anjou BC. Despite trailing by eight at half-time, England battled back and would eventually force overtime after Keagen Allen netted a three just before the buzzer.

A second period beyond regulation ensued after 17-year-old Evan held his nerve at the line with two clutch free throws.

In double OT, England stormed clear to take the win, with Evan Finishing on 12 points. The youngster owes some of his recent success to the St Albans-based 948 Sports Foundation who have supported Evan this year financially.

The next tournament for the England U17 squad is a three- way tournament versus Scotland and Sweden in June.