From Pat Burke to Aidan Igiehon, Irish Basketball’s Rising Stars Are Redefining the Game Beyond Rugby and Soccer
Irish Hoops
When people think of Irish sports, rugby, and soccer are usually the first that come to mind. However, Ireland has quietly built a basketball culture that has produced outstanding players, some of whom have left an undeniable mark on the game. This influence even stretches to the NBA, where one of its most iconic franchises, the Boston Celtics, embodies Irish heritage with pride.
Over the years, several Irish-born or Irish-rooted players have helped elevate basketball’s presence on the island. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most notable figures who have shaped Ireland’s basketball legacy.
1. Liam McHale – The Dual-Sport Sensation
Liam McHale isn’t just a basketball legend—he’s a sporting phenomenon. Equally gifted in football, McHale became a household name in Irish basketball during the 1980s when he led Ballina to the top tier of competition. His scoring ability was unmatched, topping the league charts from 1984 to 1988 with an average of 21.6 points per game.
Even in his 40s, McHale proved age was just a number, scoring 14 points in a Superleague final. His influence didn’t end on the court—he later transitioned into coaching, shaping the next generation of Irish basketball and Gaelic football players,
2. Pat Burke – The Trailblazer in the NBA
Being the first and only Irish-born player to wear an NBA jersey is no small feat, and Pat Burke did it with style. Born in Dublin, Burke’s family relocated to the U.S. when he was just four years old, giving him the opportunity to develop his game at a high level. His professional career kicked off in 2002, spanning 12 years across multiple continents.
While his time in the NBA included stints with the Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns, it was in Europe—playing for powerhouses like Real Madrid and Panathinaikos—where Burke truly made his mark as the best Irish basketball player.
He remains optimistic about Ireland’s future in the NBA, emphasizing the growing athleticism and talent emerging from the country. “The demographic of Irish basketball is changing. The whole nation is changing with the height and the demographic of people. There’s a lot of athletes coming that are going to rock the boat and people are going to say, ‘Wow, that kid is Irish’.” Burke told in an interview.
Colin O’Reilly – The Player-Coach Who Defined Irish Basketball
Few names are as synonymous with Irish basketball as Colin O’Reilly. His contributions to the sport extend beyond playing—he has been a cornerstone of Irish basketball as both a player and a coach. After competing in college basketball in the U.S., O’Reilly returned home and became a dominant force in the domestic league.
Over his career, he stacked up an impressive 10 major titles, including three Irish League championships. His leadership skills naturally transitioned into coaching, where he has taken charge of Ireland’s senior men’s team and led several top club teams. Establishing himself as the best Irish basketball player for many fans.
Chris Mullin – The Irish-American NBA Great
While Chris Mullin wasn’t born in Ireland, his roots run deep. Raised by an Irish Catholic mother who instilled in him the values of hard work and discipline, Mullin went on to have an illustrious NBA career. A first-round draft pick in 1985, he became a star for the Golden State Warriors and was a key member of the legendary 1992 Dream Team that dominated the Olympics.
Over 16 NBA seasons, Mullin’s scoring prowess, averaging 18.2 points per game, made him one of the league’s most reliable shooters. His playing style was shaped by the tough street basketball culture of New York, where he honed his skills against some of the best talent in the city.
Aidan Igiehon – The Future of Irish Basketball
Dublin-born Aidan Igiehon represents the next wave of Irish basketball talent. A standout player in high school at Lawrence Woodmere Academy in New York, he was ranked among the top 40 prospects in the U.S. in 2018 by ESPN. Although injuries slowed his college career, his ambition remains strong.
After going undrafted in 2024, Igiehon returned to Ireland to play for the Dublin Lions while investing in Irish basketball’s future. Through his academy, he has already helped young Irish players secure scholarships to American universities, ensuring that the country’s presence in the sport continues to grow. And who knows, maybe soon we will see their names on BetUS sportsbook options.
How Popular Is Basketball in Ireland?
In recent years, basketball has gained significant traction in Ireland, solidifying its place as one of the country’s most popular sports. While still trailing behind rugby and soccer, it has climbed the ranks to become the third or fourth most-played sport nationwide.
A key factor in this growth has been initiatives like the Irish Jr. NBA League, which has introduced the game to a new generation of young athletes. The program selects ten clubs to partner with local schools, giving students the opportunity to engage with the sport in a structured and exciting way. Each participating team is assigned an NBA franchise for the season, with players receiving official team-branded jerseys to enhance the experience.
As more young players get involved, the foundation for a stronger basketball culture in Ireland continues to grow, setting the stage for the next wave of homegrown talent.
What Are the Challenges Faced by Irish Basketball Players?
Basketball in Ireland has long struggled to carve out its space in a country where rugby and soccer dominate the sports landscape. Unlike these more established sports, basketball receives limited government funding, making it difficult for teams and clubs to develop the infrastructure needed to compete at higher levels.
Beyond financial constraints, player welfare is another pressing issue. More than half of Irish basketball players have expressed concerns about the lack of proper injury prevention programs within their teams. Without access to specialized training and resources, athletes often have to rely on their own knowledge or push through without the support they need.
Yet, despite these hurdles, Irish basketball players remain deeply committed to the game.
Their dedication and resilience have led some to break through and earn recognition on the global stage. As we’ve seen with the likes of Pat Burke, Colin O’Reilly, and rising stars like Aidan Igiehon, talent, and hard work can still shine through, proving that Ireland’s basketball potential is only beginning to be realized.
