From a ten strong shortlist the ODA has appointed a multi-disciplinary design team for the 12,000 capacity Basketball Arena, made up of Sinclair Knight Merz: Nussli International; Wilkinson Eyre; and KSS Design Group.

ODA Chief Executive David Higgins said:

'We have appointed a world class multi-disciplinary design team with the proven ability to deliver an innovative solution for the London 2012 Basketball Arena that is creative, efficient, economical and fit for a fantastic festival of sport.'

Chief Adviser on Architecture and Urbanism to the ODA, Ricky Burdett, said:

'Temporary structures of the scale and impact of the Basketball Arena need to be designed with elegance, simplicity and intelligence. The design team were selected for their ability to integrate structural integrity with architectural expression, backed up with experience, capacity, creativity and a deep understanding of the complex brief. The design team is committed to delivering an attractive and flexible venue for spectators and competitors, on time and on budget.'

The 12,000 capacity Basketball Arena will host the Basketball preliminaries competition, and the Wheelchair Basketball and Wheelchair Rugby competitions.

Notes to Editors

- The procurement of a construction contractor will begin in early 2008 with construction due to complete in 2011 ahead of test events.

For further information please contact the Olympic Delivery Authority Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 700 or visit the website at www.london2012.com. Find out the latest from London 2012 HQ on our blog.