HAMBURG (FIBA U17 World Championship) – Wednesday afternoon, the two groups will be known for the first round of this summer’s inaugural U17 World Championship for Men.

Last year, the 12 teams earned their places during the five U16 Continental Zone Championships.

The summer began with the Americas U16 Championship, held last June, which saw a highly talented USA team outclass unbeaten hosts Argentina in the final, with Canada grabbing the third ticket to Germany by overcoming Venezuela in the bronze medal game.

Then, in August, Spain edged past home side Lithuania in the final of the European U16s, while Serbia beat Poland to secure bronze. Hosts of the U17 World Championship Germany got the fifth and last European place for the tournament.

As the summer drew to a close, Egypt got hold of Africa’s sole ticket to the Championship after getting revenge in the final against Mali, who had defeated them in their opening game.

Oceania’s place in the U17 World Championship went to Australia, who remain the dominant force in the Zone.

Finally, with Asia’s quota for Hamburg limited to two, China and Korea grabbed the last remaining berths in November, when they qualified for the final of the U16 Asia Championship, in which China outclassed their East Asian neighbours.

Wednesday, at 13.00 (12.00 GMT) these 12 teams will be drawn into two groups of six for the first stage of the FIBA U17 World Championship. Beginning 2nd July 2010, each group will be played as a round robin, determining the four teams from each group who will qualify for the quarter-finals. The final will be held on 11th July 2010.

Make sure you stay logged on to hamburg2010.fiba.com, where the draw can be followed live, and get a taste of what is to come with reaction from team representatives and coaches.

FIBA