For Evbuomwan and Williams, 24, this double-header on Thursday in Switzerland and then at home to Slovakia in Newcastle on Sunday is set to mark their GB debuts at senior level.
But how the duo have been able to sign up for the latest fixtures is all about timing.
Four of GB’s six first-round qualifying matches for the 2027 Fiba World Cup were in November 2025 and March 2026, which clashed with the NBA season.
But with this window opening in between NBA seasons, as well as those of its European counterparts, the stars aligned for Steutel and his team.
“In the season, guys in the NBA [and] the EuroLeague, we struggle to get. There’s very little ability to be able to do that,” added Steutel.
“We’re right before the start of the season and our general manager has done an incredible job communicating with the Boston Celtics. Tosan is closer to home now with Barcelona.
“They’ve both been really supportive and want those guys to play, so [we’re] really excited.”
GB’s coaching staff have long craved the opportunity to be able to cash in by adding recent NBA players to their squad.
Dan Clark, who featured at the 2012 Olympics alongside two-time NBA All-Star Luol Deng, is now GB’s general manager and has stayed in contact with Newcastle-born Evbuomwan and Williams, awaiting the opportunity to be able to call on the duo.
“It’s not just a ‘this window’ thing, it has taken years,” explains Steutel.
“Tosan is someone who I’ve known for a long time and I’ve followed his journey. He’s someone who has communicated really well with us and Amari likewise. Dan Clark has been communicating with Amari for years.
“We’re able to get the timing right now and get them in a GB jersey. It’s great for the team, but I think it’s great for British basketball on the whole.”
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