Birmingham Bullets have taken up their European spot and fired a broadside at Brighton Bears in the process.

Bears coach Nick Nurse argued his side should be given priority for a European place ahead of Bullets because of their league placing last season.

Nurse has since decided Bears would be over-stretched if forced to play within stringent player restrictions in the EuroCup and has pulled out of the event.

Bullets owner Craig Bown said: "Brighton are full of hot air. If they want a position in Europe step up to the hoop and take your best shot. Don't dodge the flak with a league position debate.

"Competing against other BBL sides in European competition is a strengthening process Bullets relish. We are the only UK pro basketball team making a go of it."

Nurse is adamant his side will look to the continent but only when given time to put together a squad capable of competing. He insisted: "This is the direction we want to move in eventually."

Bears have ten places available on their Summer Camp, which runs from August 4-8.

The camp is already twice as popular as last year with Nurse himself, assistant Steve Swanson and Bears skipper Randy Duck among those set to pass on tips.

Details on (01273) 626943 or at brightonbears.com.

Teams of five are invited to enter what is expected to be an exciting outdoor competition at West Park Courts, Worthing, on Sunday, August 4.

Contact westparkcourts@hotmail.com for details.