The British side were promoted to Europe's top division following an undefeated six games in 2007, but last year the narrowest of defeats to Germany, of 74-72, ultimately saw them thrown into a relegation round in January of this year.

Chris Spice, the Performance Director of British Basketball said: "It has been a great week for the British Basketball programme. We have confirmed a head coach of Olympic proportions and also received news that the strides we have taken to be seen as a top European nation have been recognised.

"We are thankful to FIBA and FIBA Europe for the opportunity to prove that we belong in Europe's elite and believe that the group of talent we have at present, combined with Tom's calibre, will equate to a successful A Division campaign. I'd like to also thank all of my colleagues for their help in achieving this fantastic news."

Without their American college players, who were not released for the games against Bosnia & Herzegovina, Romania and Finland, Britain lost out in a four-nation round robin relegation series, across 16- days. However, FIBA Europe has deemed a combination of both their performances against the top European sides, and that London 2012 represents a great opportunity to promote the sport, as an opportunity to reinstate the nation to Division A competition in 2010-11.

"The Board of FIBA Europe at its meeting in Cannes on Friday, 10th May 2009 has exceptionally approved the admission of the Great Britain (GBR) women's team to Division A of the EuroBasket women 2009," said Nar Zanolin, FIBA Europe Secretary General in an official letter.

"This decision was taken for the purpose of promoting basketball in Great Britain and in line with your request to allow your country to continue to play for the London Olympics 2012."

British Basketball has just appointed Tom Maher as the head coach of the Great Britain women's team, through to London 2012, and will use this summer to prepare for next year's Division A games.