MUNICH (EuroBasket 2007) - The FIBA Europe Board approved a new competition schedule for EuroBasket 2007 that will feature three extra game days.
In the new system, 16 teams will play a round robin format with the top 12 advancing to the quarterfinal round, which will consist of two groups of six.
Each of the 12 teams will play round robin games against the teams coming from other groups.
The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
The final qualifying round for EuroBasket will take place from August 29-31 and EuroBasket 2007 will run from September 3-16.
"The new competition format was unanimously approved as it will give EuroBasket 2007 maximum exposure," said FIBA Europe Secretary General Nar Zanolin.
"For four extra days than previous EuroBaskets, fans will be able to watch top international basketball competition, both live and on television across the continent.
"In addition, the extra days of competition will allow for increased media exposure and greater visibility for the event.
"The longer we can showcase a world class basketball event, the better it is for all involved."
FIBA Europe
www.fibaeurope.com