Ireland trump Luxembourg in EuroBasket qualifier

A dominant Ireland performance saw them claim a 96-76 away victory against Luxembourg in their FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Pre-Qualifier on Wednesday.

Aidan Harris Igiehon and Taiwo Badmus finished as joint-top scorers with 20 points apiece. Igiehon sparkled throughout and was heading for a 100% conversion rate from the floor, only for a late three point attempt not to drop, the Clondalkin man also had five rebounds and steal.

There were several fine performances, including from guards CJ Fulton and Sean Flood, who slotted 16 and 12 points respectively. Head coach Mark Keenan said he was "very proud" of his players, adding: "We got a great contribution from the whole team, not just our starters, our bench was superb."

Ireland began with intent, a Badmus dunk was the first points on the board in the opening minute. His layup had Ireland 7-6 up at the midpoint of the first quarter. Aidan Harris Igiehon wasn't in the starting five, but once introduced with three minutes to go in the first he made an immediate impact with eight points in the quarter, including his three point jump shot in the final seconds, to put Ireland 23-18 up. He’d have 10 points by half-time, landing all four of his attempts at the basket.

The visitors continued to keep their noses in front in the second quarter and had a 40-37 lead at the break.