Mark Scannell: Irish basketballers courting Europe once again

Compared to Euro 2016, or the World U20 rugby final, or the decisive third test in South Africa, Ireland’s return to the international basketball arena seems like small potatoes. Perhaps it is. But it’s an important small step for the sport in this country, and for the women’s team preparing for the FIBA tournament in Gibraltar. Coach Mark Scannell put it in context.

It’s a long time ago now, but Mark Scannell can still remember walking through the airport in America with Tom Wilkinson, both of their gear bags stuffed with booty: US college t-shirts.

That was 30 years ago, and the two lads were coming back from international basketball duty with Ireland. Those BU and St. John’s tops were required wearing on the courts of Cork.