WORCESTER Wolves hope to be playing European basketball in the next five years.

They have decided against entering continental competitions next season despite being granted a licence to take part after their British Basketball League success.

Wolves, who won the play-offs and BBL Trophy, have been chosen as the UK’s representatives via a ‘B’ licence.

They could play in the Euro Cup and EuroChallenge, the second and third tiers of the European game, but are unlikely to meet the criteria for the prestigious Euroleague.

Club president Mick Donovan said: “It’s great for British sport that a UK team have been awarded a ‘B’ licence and are recognised against some of the most famous clubs in the world.

“It shows how far we have come but if we compare the size of the clubs it’s like David and Goliath. It’s something we aspire to do in the next three to five years.”

Licences are given depending on a country’s European ranking with the UK rated 27th.

The last British team to play in Europe was Guildford Heat in 2007-08 under current Wolves coach Paul James.