Maccabi has not sent a men's or women's team to Israel since 1997, where they claimed silver after losing to Canada.

Maccabi GB basketball chairman Mark Dinner said: "A combination of the growing popularity of the sport and the increasingly talented number of young athletes hoping to participate is extremely encouraging.

"We are hopeful we can accommodate every player's dream and send our largest contingency ever to Israel."

In addition to the men's team, Maccabi is hoping to send three additional teams - two boys' and a girls' team (under-18 and under-16 age) .

The basketball party will total around 50 people, including management.

The group is currently recruiting young players across the country and holds trials in Leeds on Sunday, September 7 and in London the following Sunday.

Mr Dinner added: "Our goal is to have a broad representation of both young men and women.

"We are delighted with the interest we have had so far."

* Details: www.maccabigb.org