Laois basketballer named in Ireland squad for 2029 EuroBasket Pre-Qualifiers

Laois will once again have a strong interest in the international basketball stage as James Gormley has been named in Ireland’s squad for the upcoming FIBA EuroBasket 2029 Pre-Qualifiers.

The Mountmellick native, who plays his club basketball with Griffith College Éanna, is included in head coach Michael Bree’s 12-man panel for crucial home ties against Azerbaijan and Luxembourg at the National Basketball Arena.

Gormley’s inclusion continues a remarkable journey for the Laois man. Back in 2019, he made history as the first player from Portlaoise Panthers to be capped at senior international level for Ireland, a landmark achievement for basketball in the county.

Standing at seven feet tall, Gormley first came to prominence as a teenager when he secured a basketball scholarship to the United States at just 17 years of age. Before that move, he broadened his experience on the European stage, attending the prestigious Red Star camp in Serbia and spending a month in Lithuania, where he trained under legendary coach Steponas Kairys.

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He later spent a year in high school in Alabama, lining out with Team Carroll Premier, further sharpening the relentless work rate and fearless mindset that have defined his career.

Now back playing domestically with Griffith College Éanna, Gormley is part of an Ireland squad targeting two vital wins to reignite their qualifying campaign.

Ireland face Azerbaijan on Friday, February 27, followed by a clash with Luxembourg on Monday, March 2, with both games taking place at the National Basketball Arena and broadcast live on TG4.