Our Under 14 team recently took an exciting trip to Weert, Netherlands, to compete in the prestigious NXT STARS tournament. After flying out on Wednesday 28th of May , the lads were straight into action on Thursday with two tough games ahead.

📅 Day 1 – Thursday 29 May – Battling Beginnings

Thursday saw the team face two strong opponents in Basketball Academy Utrecht and Coretec Academy. The boys battled bravely in both games, staying competitive right until the final buzzer.

The highlight of the day came in the closing 30 seconds of the match against Utrecht, when the team delivered an outstanding defensive stop, followed by a flawless fast break and finish — a perfect end to Day One! 👏

Coach Donogh McDonogh said after the game:

“I don’t think the score reflected how we played. It’s their first time playing together as a group, and they haven’t played competitive basketball in nearly three months. I’ve no doubt we’ll be better tomorrow.”

🔥 Day 2 – Friday 30 May – Heart, Grit and a Comeback

Friday kicked off with a daunting clash against a very strong Beng Limburg side. Based on previous results, not many gave the lads a chance. But they showed their true colours.

Down by 15 points at half-time, the comeback started. Captain Roman O’Toole rallied the team with fierce defence and exceptional leadership. He was backed up by Fionn Gavin, who took three charges, and Elliot Molloy, who nailed some huge three-pointers to bring us back within four.

Then it was Cian Cullinane time — two tough baskets brought the game level with two minutes left!
Unfortunately, foul trouble and some clutch shots from Limburg saw us fall just short: 50–45.

But the lads weren’t done yet! A must-win group game against BC Budućnost was next, and they came out flying.

Tadgh Cullinane hit early threes, and Mark Kelly drove strong to the hoop. The Serbians made a run in the third, but floor general Finn Maguire took control—managing the tempo and finding cutters with calm precision.

On the defensive end, Adam Lyons (Coach’s Most Improved Player) came up huge with rebounds, steals, and clutch free throws down the stretch. The support from travelling fans (and those picked up along the way!), including Evan Sommers who came from Amsterdam to cheer the lads on, gave a great boost.

Coach McDonogh was full of praise:

“Despite two heavy defeats yesterday and a narrow one this morning, to come out and perform with that level of intensity and effort—I couldn’t be prouder.” 🏆

🏁 Day 3 – Saturday – May 31 – Final Game & Fun Times

Saturday brought a rematch against Budućnost-1, their strongest team. The Serbians had a physical edge, but our lads matched them in intensity for the first half.

Unfortunately, a couple of injuries and foul trouble gave the Serbs the opening they needed in the third quarter, and they ran out comfortable winners despite a brave late push from the boys.

Adults vs Children – The Real Final Showdown!

With the tournament wrapped up, it was time for the most important game of the week: Adults vs Children!

Despite some questionable refereeing from Colm Gavin (which landed both coaches Donogh and Máirtín in foul trouble), tactical genius from managers Edwena and Colette helped the adults secure a comprehensive win! 🧓🏆👶

💬 Final Words from the Coach

Coach McDonogh wrapped it all up perfectly:

“The difference from where we were on Wednesday to today, both on and off the court, is like night and day. I couldn’t be prouder of this team—from the effort they gave to the way they represented the club. I couldn’t ask for more.” 👏👏👏

💚 A Tournament to Remember

The lads might not have won the tournament, but off the court, they made lifelong memories, new friends from across Europe, and brought a special Irish spirit to the whole event.

A huge thank you to everyone who made it possible:
🙌 Team Managers Edwena and Colette
🙌 Assistant Coach Máirtín
🙌 All the amazing parents
🙌 Our Amsterdam-based supporter Evan Sommers
🙌 And of course, the incredible players who gave their all.

It was a brilliant few days—basketball, fun, friendship, and pride in the green and white. 🟢⚪

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