"When you're a kid you can only dream about the honour of representing your country," said the 24-year-old.
"I was so disappointed when I realised I wasn't going to be able to be involved last summer but I was calling the players and coach Finch all the time to see how they were getting on.
"I also went on the internet and there were a couple of guys I used to play with when I was younger who filled me in and gave me the updates of how everyone was playing.
"I love the Olympics, I've watched it all my life and to hopefully be part of the first GB team to qualify is monumental. We would be making history, but of course we have a few years to build up to that."
Mensah-Bonsu is also excited by the prospect of teaming up with Chicago Bulls captain Luol Deng, whom he has known and played against since childhood, first at club level in the UK and then at college in the States. The Tottenham Hotspur fan hopes that next season thad friendly rivalry will be revived as he looks to reaffirm himself in the NBA.
"I didn't get much of a chance to play on the team (Dallas Mavericks) because they had so many experienced players, so I was unable to show what I could do.
"I had a solid year this year and now feel that I have a great chance to get back into the NBA.
"It took me a few games to adjust to the European league and to change my game up, but I feel that I have improved as a player and I have grown both on and off the court.
"I know I am an NBA player and that I could have, and should have, been there this year."
Great Britain coach Chris Finch agrees that Mensah-Bonsu is destined only for great things and relishes the opportunity to have him involved in the international programme.
"Being named MVP of the D-League All Star game last year was absolutely a reflection of his talent," said Finch.
"Pops brings an unbelievable amount of energy to the floor. He is one of those unique players who can impact the game without ever really needing the ball. He will allow us to play several different styles of basketball.
"But also his personality will be a major addition. He has a positively, happy, infectious nature that reminds me of Roger Huggins."
