Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn is proud to celebrate the selection of two of our former National League stars, Nollaig Cunningham and Padraig Cregg, to Irish Masters squads for the upcoming FIMBA Maxibasketball World Championship, taking place in Ticino, Switzerland from June 27 to July 6, 2025.

Both men have long been synonymous with the green of Maigh Cuilinn, and now they will wear the green of Ireland once again—this time on the global Masters stage.

Nollaig Cunningham – Ireland O50 Men’s Team

A familiar face on the sideline and the court, Nollaig Cunningham has been named to the Ireland Over 50 Men’s team for the second consecutive year. The team will compete against top international opposition following a fifth-place finish in last year’s European Championships in Italy.

Nollaig’s commitment to the sport remains as strong as ever. This past season, he featured for our Galway League men’s team, all while serving as Chair of the Senior Men’s Section, head coach of our senior women’s team, and mentor to multiple underage squads.

Asked about the selection, Nollaig commented:
It’s a real honour to be selected again. The Masters programme has been a brilliant experience—not just for the games, but for the camaraderie and the passion that everyone brings. Representing Ireland at this stage of life is something really special, and I’m grateful to still be part of the game both on and off the court.

Padraig Cregg – Ireland O40 Men’s Team

Also earning a richly deserved Masters call-up is Padraig Cregg, named to the Ireland Over 40 Men’s team for the first time. A standout talent from a young age, Padraig was previously selected to Irish youth international squads and was a cornerstone of our National League team for many seasons.

Currently based in Dublin and representing Glasnevin, Padraig continues to play the game at a high level and brings significant experience and athleticism to the national setup. His selection to the squad highlights the strength and quality of player that has come through the Maigh Cuilinn ranks.

When asked about the selection, Padraig said:
It’s a brilliant feeling to be pulling on the Irish jersey again. Basketball has given me so much over the years, and it’s great to be able to compete at this level with such a committed group. I’ll always be proud of my time with Maigh Cuilinn, and I carry that with me into this next chapter.

Representing Ireland with Pride

Ireland will send five Masters teams to the World Championships across various age categories, competing over nine days against some of the best veteran talent in the world. The tournament will feature over 165 teams from around the globe, making it one of the largest gatherings of international basketball talent.

Basketball Ireland’s Masters programme lead Mike Murray praised the commitment shown by players and staff, noting:
The enthusiasm showed by everyone involved has been amazing and preparation starts in earnest for all the teams now.

Ireland O40 Men’s head coach Kieran Leahy said of his team:
The players have shown incredible commitment, effort and passion to wear the Irish jersey and I’m positive that they will represent our country with both pride and honour.

Ireland O50 Men’s head coach Martin ‘Kojack’ Conroy added:
We are now getting down to the hard work to be ready for the championship… The new blood in the team will definitely bring huge energy and basketball IQ.

Club Pride

All of us at Maigh Cuilinn are immensely proud of Nollaig and Padraig. Their success is a reflection of not just their individual dedication and talent, but also the spirit and legacy of Cumann Cispheile Mhaigh Cuilinn. We wish them, and all of Team Ireland, the very best of luck in Switzerland.

Go n-éirí libh go léir – Maigh Cuilinn abú!

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