Finland Prove They Belong In Division A

There is an enormous sense of pride in Finnish basketball following the national team's impressive summer in EuroBasket Division A's ‘Group of Death'.
Henrik Dettmann coached the team to three wins in eight games, a success rate that would have been gladly received by most supporters of the sport in the country before the Group A campaign got underway.
The Finns were rank outsiders going into games against Serbia, Italy, Bulgaria and Hungary and most people
Kimmo Muurinen had a big game for Finland as they completed the sweep of Hungary on the weekend.expected them to finish bottom.
By sweeping Hungary and upsetting Serbia at home, Finland safeguarded their status in Division A and also earned a trip to next year's Additional Qualifying Round.
They capped off their summer with an 88-73 triumph over Hungary on Saturday to clinch fourth place.
"It was an important win for Finnish basketball," Dettmann said.
"We are able to keep on competing against the top teams of the continent in addition to winning a second opportunity for a spot in European Championships.
"I am especially happy with the win coming in a must-win-situation."
What cannot be forgotten is that Finland only won promotion from Division B last summer.
Most teams want to consolidate their position in the top flight, which is what Dettmann's team has been able to achieve.
"This team really deserved the win," he said.
"They have been committed and working hard throughout the summer, which has been great for us in overall.
"I respect my players for putting their egos aside and thinking only the best of our team."