Killester look to retain title as basketball fixtures released

Reigning treble champions 11890 Killester are set to face Moycullen in their opening game of the season after the Nivea For Men’s SuperLeague fixtures were released today.

Reigning treble champions 11890 c are set to face Moycullen in their opening game of the season after the Nivea For Men’s SuperLeague fixtures were released today.

Mark Keenan’s charges enjoyed a clean sweep of trophies last term (Nivea For Men’s SL, North Conference, National Cup) and begin their defence against a tricky Moycullen outfit, who impressed in their first season recently.

“Our aim for the coming season is to keep our rhythm and momentum going from last season and hopefully repeat our successes from last year,” said Killester head coach Mark Keenan.

“I have most of the same team back with a few new faces to add also, which should make us very competitive again. The hunger and appetite is still there for success within the squad so that is very positive and encouraging.”

“Moycullen will be very tough opposition for our first outing away from home,” added Keenan. “Their experience from last season will stand to them this year.”

Elsewhere, last season’s beaten league finalists UL Eagles make the trip to the capital on the opening weekend to face UCD/Marian.

The Eagles will be lead by former Tralee Tigers Head Coach Mark Bernsen, who returns from the US to take charge of last season’s surprise package.

A strong looking Neptune side will be looking to build on last season and have outlined their intentions by signing US power forward Robinson Louisme and former Shamrock Hoops standout Phil Taylor.

Their opening tie has set up a clash with Danny Fulton’s Belfast Star, who reached the Play-off stages last season.

“Obviously we'd like to get the season off to a positive start.” said Neptune Head Coach Pat Price. “We are a team and club in transition, and starting off the year with a successful result against Belfast Star would be ideal.”

Irish underage coach Paul Kelleher has landed the UCC Demons head coach role and he brings his side to Belfast for a tricky opener against the Ulster Elks. Demons have bolstered their squad by securing the signing of Marcus Van from Central Michigan University.

Meanwhile, IrishSport.TV Women’s SuperLeague reigning champions Team Montenotte Hotel Cork face 11890 Killester on October 16, while UL and DCU Mercy clash in a mouthwatering fixture on the same night in the UL Arena.

“This season is going to be a huge test,” said Team Montenotte Hotel Cork head coach Mark Scannell.

“We have lost a few players but we have enjoyed some fantastic underage success in the past and hopefully these players can make the step up to SuperLeague. UL and DCU Mercy will be strong this season but hopefully we will be in the mix.”

Newly promoted Black Forge Oblate Dynamos open their campaign with a home clash against Dublin rivals Meteors.