Ireland defeated by Iceland in FIBA Women’s EuroBasket 2029 pre-qualifiers opener

Ireland will take plenty of positives from the performance, including Sarah Hickey’s 25 points and 14 rebounds, an impressive 15 points on FIBA Women’s EuroBasket debut for Ella O’Donnell, while there were new caps for Aoibheann Donnelly, Lucy Coogan and Katie Williamson.

Sarah Hickey of Ireland in action against Emma Theódórsson of Iceland. Pic: Paul Phelan/Sportsfile.

Wed, 11 Nov, 2026 - 22:26

Cian Locke

reland were edged 81-73 by Iceland in their FIBA Women’s EuroBasket 2029 Pre-Qualifiers opener at the National Basketball Arena on Wednesday. Ireland were level at 73-73 apiece with two and a half minutes to go, only for a late flourish to swing the game in Iceland’s favour.

Ireland, under new head coach Thomas Garlepp, will take plenty of positives from the performance, including Sarah Hickey’s 25 points and 14 rebounds, an impressive 15 points on FIBA Women’s EuroBasket debut for Ella O’Donnell, while there were new caps for Aoibheann Donnelly, Lucy Coogan and Katie Williamson.