Irish Examiner view: Calling foul on basketball boycott comments

Basketball Ireland knows the challenge to do the right thing — no matter the cost — rarely occurs at the most convenient time

Ireland is scheduled to take on Israel in tonight's EuroBasket qualifier in the Rimi Olympic Centre in Riga. Stock picture: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

The Irish women’s basketball team takes on Israel this evening in a EuroBasket qualifier, fixed for Riga’s Rimi Olympic Centre, a game that has already assumed a significance beyond its final scoreline.

The conflict in Gaza has led to calls on Basketball Ireland to boycott this fixture, but officials have refused to do so, pointing out that Ireland would face a fine of up to €180,000 and suspension from international competition for five years.