Category: Basketball Clubs

Notre Dame Irish Men’s Basketball Team 1992-2003

Factfile

Irish Basketball Association Men’s National League Team 1992-2003

Home Venue: National Basketball Arena, Tymon, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Co. South Dublin

Colours: White Singlets with Green Trim, White Shorts with Green Trim.

Honours: League Playoff Champions 1999-2000. National Cup Winners (4) 1996-97, 1997-98, 1998-99, 1999-2000.

Career Record: Wins-Losses: League 129-95, Playoffs: 10-5.

Record

YearLeagueLeague W-LTitleP/O W-LTitleCup W-LTitle
1992-93IBA Bud NBL4-150-0
1993-94IBA MD112-2MD2
1994-95IBA MSL6-84-1
1995-96IBA MSL10-80-0
1996-97IBA MSL11-70-1MNC
1997-98IBA MSL13-51-1MNC
1998-99IBA MSL16-100-1MNC
1999-2000IBA MSL17-93-0MSL POMNC
2000-01IBA MSL *15-8
2001-02IBA MSL11-150-0
2002-03IBA MSL14-82-1
Notre Dame Irish Men’s Basketball Team Record 1992-2003 [Ref: 1]

Previous Names: Delta Notre Dame (1993-94), Denny Notre Dame (1994-2000), Big Al’s Notre Dame (2000-2003) – All due to sponsorship.

Report

Notre Dame are a Basketball team based in Firhouse, Dublin 24 (Co. South Dublin). the Men’s Team joined the Men’s Budweiser National League in 1993-94, playing in the new National Basketball arena, in nearby Tymon, Dublin 24. They were the Tallaght Area side in the Men’s League at the time and after being relegated to the new Division 1 for the 1994-95 season they were immediately promoted winning the Division with a 12-2 Wins-Losses record.

While they never won the Men’s Super League title they were the Cup specialists winning the Men’s National Cup four years in succession from 1996-97 to 1999-2000 defeating St Vincent’s 80-75 in 1996-97, Neptune 79-73 in 1997-98, Blue demons 82-61 in 1998-99 and then St. vincent’s again 69-67 in 1999-2000, while also winning the League Playoffs that year, doing the double over St. Vincent’s with a 93-74 victory.

in 2003 the Men’s Team was split from the Underage Teams, which continued to play in the Dublin Leagues, as the Team was taken over by Shamrock Rovers Football Club, which had aimed at the time to become more like a European multi-sports club. The team was renamed Shamrock Rovers HOOPS for the 2003-04 season.

References

Newspapers

[1] Anon. (1993) “Hungry North Mon take National League honours”Irish Press. Monday, April 4, 1993. pg. 38-39

[2] Anon. (1993) “Factfile | Basketball”Irish Independent Wednesday, November 11, 1993. pg. 53

[3] Anon. (1993) “Factfile | Basketball”Irish Independent Wednesday, February 17, 1993. pg. 17

[4] Anon. (1993) “For the Record | Basketball”Sunday Independent, April 4, 1993. pg. 52

Magazines

[5] Anon. (1993) “Basketball National Leagues” IBA Magazine. April 1993.

[6] (1994) “Budweiser Superleague Final”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 27. March 1994 pp. 16-17

[7] (1995) “Budweiser League Final Standings”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 30. March 1995 pg. 24

[8] (1996) “Tralee Tops in Budweiser Superleague”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 33. April 1996. pg. 16

[9] (1996) “Tralee Tops in Budweiser Superleague Marian: Back in big-time after unbeaten campaign”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 33. April 1996. pg. 27

[10] (1996) “MSB return to top flight”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 33. April 1996. pp. 29

Magazines / Sources

[11] Anon. (1995) “BUDWEISER LEAGUE FINAL STANDINGS Irish Basketball Association Magazine. March 1995. Pg. 27-30.

Newspapers / Sources

[12] Anon. (1995) “Basketball results”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 13, 1995. [pg. 14-15 Irish Newspaper Archive]

[13] Hudson, Elizabeth (1995) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 20, 1995. [pg. 24-25 Irish Newspaper Archive]

[14] Anon. (1995) “Basketball”. Sunday Independent. March 26, 1995. [pg. 48-49 Irish Newspaper Archive]

[15] Hudson, Elizabeth (1995) “Vincent’s have winning formula”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 27, 1995. [pg. 22-23 Irish Newspaper Archive]

[16] Anon. (1994) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 20, 1995. [pg. 24 Irish Newspaper Archive]

[17] Anon. (1995) Kerry spring surprise” Sundat Independent. March 26, 1995. [Pg. 49 Irish Newspaper Archive]

[18] Anon. (1995) “Neptune squeeze through” Irish Examiner. Saturday, March 25, 1995 [Pg. 33 Irish Newspaper Archive]

Sources

[19] (1994) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, February 28, 1994. pp. 26-27.

[20] (1994) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 14, 1994. pp. 24-25.

[21] (1995) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 14, 1994. pp. 24-25.

[22] (1995) “Vincent’s have winning formula”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 27, 1995. pp. 22-23.

[23] (1997) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 20, 1995. pp. 24-25.

[24] (1997) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 10, 1997. pp. 28-29.

[25] (1997) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 17, 1997. pp. 26-27.

[26] (1998) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 2, 1998. pp. 20-21.

[27] (1998) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 16, 1998. pp. 34-35.

[28] (1999) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 15, 1999. pp. 42-43.

[29] (1999) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 22, 1999. pp. 46-47.

[30] (1999) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Saturday, March 27, 1999. pp. 46-47.

[31] (1999) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 29, 1999, pp. 40-41.

[32] (2000) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 13, 2000. pp. 38-39.

[33] (2000) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Saturday, March 18, 2000. pp. 24-25.

[34] (2000) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 20, 2000. pp. 38-39.

[35] (2001) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, February 26, 2001. pp. 28-29.

[36] (2002) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 11, 2002. pp. 94-95.

[37] (2002) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 18, 2002. pp. 28-29.

[38] (2002) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 25, 2002. pp. 74-75.

[39] (2003) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 10, 2003. pp. 66-67.

[40] (2003) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 24, 2003. pp. 34-35.

[41] (1994) “Basketball”. Irish Examiner. Monday, February 28, 1994. pp. 26-27.

[42] (1994) “Basketball”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 7, 1994. pp. 22-23.

[43] (1994) “Rose Breen Orchestrates Victory”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 14, 1994. pp. 20-21.

[44] (1994) “Basketball”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 18, 1994. pp. 18-19.

[45] (1995) “Brunell lift league title for first time”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 6, 1995. pp. 14-15.

Bibliography

[46] Shannon, Kieran (2009) “Hanging from the Rafters: The story of Neptune and the Golden Age of Irish Basketball” Appendix Section 1: The Irish Men’s Game: The Complete Records: National League Tables and Top Four semi-finals and Finals. Pp. 516-527

Newspapers

[47] (1997) “All The Sprite Cup Results”. Irish Independent. Monday, January 27, 1997. pg. 26

[48] (1998) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, January 26, 1998. pp. 30-31

[49] (1999) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, February 1, 1999. pp. 30-31

[50] (2000) “Basketball”. Irish Independent. Monday, January 31, 2000. pp. 28-29

Websites

[51] Basketball Ireland (2018) History [Internet] Available from: http://www.basketballireland.ie/history/ [Accessed 26 May 2018]

Acknowledgements

Thanks to John Folan.

About this document

Researched, compiled and written by Enda Mulcahy for the

Eirball | Irish North American and World Sports Archive

Last Updated: 20 July 2020

(c) Copyright Enda Mulcahy and Eirball 2020

You may quote this document in part provided that proper acknowledgement is given to the authors. All Rights Resereved.

Blue Demons | Men’s National Basketball League Team 1979-1993

National Basketball League Team 1979-1993

Home Court:

Colours:

Honours: NBL Division 1 League Winners (3) 1980-81, 1983-84, 1988-89 / NBL Division 1 Top Four Winners (3) 1980-81, 1984-85, 1987-88

Career Record (W-L-T): Total: 174-92 / Regular Season: 168-85 / Post-Season: 8-7

History: One of the most consistent teams in Irish Basketball during the Golden Era from 1979-1991, the Blue Demons, from Cork, won the League and Top 4 Double in 1980-81 and also won the League in 1983-84 and 1988-89, as well as the Top Four Playoffs in 1984-85 and 1987-88.

They reached the playoffs in both the 1991-92 and 1992-93 seasons during the short-lived Budweiser National League when both Division 1 and Division 2 were merged into one League with 2 Conferences. Both seasons were a disappointment by Blue demons standards and they dropped out of the League following the 1992-93 season.

They continue today as the UCC Demons after a merger with the University in Cork.

Name Changes: Blue Demons 1979-1981 / Team Britvic 1981-1985 / Dawn Milk Blue Demons 1985-1991 / Whirlpool Blue Demons 1991-1993

Year-by-Year Record

Year Regular Season Post-Season International
  Lge P W L Pts P W L Pos P W L
1979-80 NBL D1 18 14 4 28 2 1 1 2nd/F      
1980-81 NBL D1 18 17 1 34 2 2 0 1st/W      
1981-82 NBL D1 18 14 4 28 2 1 1 2nd/F      
1982-83 NBL D1 16 9 7 18 0 0 0 5th      
1983-84 NBL D1 18 14 4 28 1 0 1 1st/SF      
1984-85 NBL D1 18 13 5 26 2 2 0 2nd/W      
1985-86 NBL D1 18 8 10 16 0 0 0 6th      
1986-87 NBL D1 18 13 5 26 1 0 1 2nd/SF      
1987-88 NBL D1 18 13 5 26 2 2 0 3rd/W      
1988-89 NBL D1 18 14 4 28 1 0 1 1st/SF      
1989-90 NBL D1 18 8 10 16 0 0 0 5th      
1990-91 NBL D1 16 7 9 14 0 0 0 6th      
1991-92 NBL Bud 22 12 10 24 1 0 1 4th S /QF      
1992-93 NBL Bud 19 12 7 24 1 0 1 3rd S /QF      

NBL D1 = National Basketball League Division 1 / NBL Bud = Budweiser National Basketball League / Pos = Final Position / W = Top Four Playoff Winners / F = Top Four Finalists / SF = Top Four Semi-Finalists / QF = Playoff Quarter-Finalists /S = Southern Conference.

References: [1-22]

References

________________________________________________________

Bibliography

[1] Shannon, Kieran (2009) “Hanging from the Rafters: The story of Neptune and the Golden Age of Irish Basketball” Appendix Section 1: The Irish Men’s Game: The Complete Records: National League Tables and Top Four semi-finals and Finals. Pp. 516-527.

Magazine Articles

[2] (1984) “National League 1983-84”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. October 1984.

[3] (1985) “Final Standings”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Autumn 1985.

[4] (1986) “National League Standings 1985-86”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. 1985-86 Season.

[5] (1987) “National League 1986-87”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. 1986-87 Season.

[6] (1989) “National League 1988-89 Final Standings”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 12. 1988-89 Season. pg. 28

[7] (1990) “National League 1989-90 Final Standings”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 15. March 1990 pp. 18

[8] (1991) “National League Tables 1990/91”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 18. May 1991 pp. 14

Sources

[9] (1983) “Scene is set for top-four showdown”. Irish Press. Monday, March 16, 1983.

[10] (1988) “Dawn Milk leave it to last seconds”. Irish Press. Monday, March 21, 1988. pp. 12-13.

[11] (1989) “Neptune find right formula”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 20, 1989. pp. 14-15.

[12] (1990) “Ballina overtime ban hands it to Vincents”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 19, 1990. pp. 12-13.

[13] (1991) “Last gasp Neptune!”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 25, 1991. pp. 22-23.

[14] (1983) “Vincent’s, North Mon on top”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 21, 1983. pp. 14-15.

[15] (1984) “Top two titles stay in Dublin”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 19, 1984. pp. 16-17.

[16] (1985) “Formula finally right”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 18, 1985. pp. 16-17.

[17] (1986) “Dubliners basket top four honours”. Irish Examiner. Monday, March 17, 1986. pp. 12-13.

[18] Anon. (1981) “Pride for the ‘Blues”. Irish independent. Wednesday, March 25, 1981. pg. 13

Magazine Articles

[19]1992) “Budweiser Superleague Finals”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 21. April 1992 pp. 17

Sources

[21(1992) “Ballina attain Holy Grail in thriller”. Irish Independent. Monday, April 13, 1992. pp. 32.

[22(1992) “League title goes West”. Irish Examiner. Monday, April 13, 1992. pp. 12-13.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to

About this document

Researched, compiled and written by Enda Mulcahy for the

Eirball | Irish, North American & World Sports Archive

Last Updated: 24 September 2019

(c) Copyright Enda Mulcahy and Eirball 2019

You may quote this document in part provided that proper acknowledgement is given to the authors. All Rights Reserved.

St. Vincent’s Killarney | Men’s National Basketball League Team 1979-1987

Men’s National Basketball League Team 1979-1987

Home Court:

Colours:

Honours: NBL Division 1 Champions 1979-80 / NBL Division 1 Top 4 Winners 1979-80

Career Record (W-L-T): Total: / Regular Season:

History: Became the first Irish Basketball Club to pay American imports to play in 1979, which was against the rules of the Amateur Basketball Association of Ireland, but when the Association saw how many fans it was bringing in, they changed the rules allowing two paid imports per National League team, changing the name of the organisation to the Irish Basketball Association to reflect this. This decision by St. Vincent’s and the IBA ushered in the Golden Era of Irish Basketball which lasted until 1991.

They won the League that season (1979-80) as well as the Top 4 Playoffs, and competed at or near the top for the next four seasons, reaching the top four playoffs each year from 1979-80 to 1983-84 and winning the League and Playoffs again in 1981-82. In 1984-85 they were relegated finishing second last in Division 1. Their last season in the National League was in 1986-87 where they finished joint last in Division 2.

They have an important place in Irish Basketball history, and set the standard for all Killarney and Kerry Basketball teams to follow.

Name Changes: St. Vincent’s Killarney 1979-1981, Gleneagle Killarney 1981-1987 (Sponsored by Gleneagle Hotel)

Year-by-Year Record

v

Year Regular Season Post-Season International
  Lge P W L Pts P W L Pos P W L
1979-80 NBL D1 18 16 2 32 2 2 0 1st/W      
1980-81 NBL D1 18 12 6 24 2 1 1 2nd/F      
1982-83 NBL D1 16 10 6 20 1 0 1 3rd/SF      
1983-84 NBL D1 18 11 7 22 2 1 1 4th/F      
1984-85 NBL D1 18 4 14 8 0 0 0 9th/R      
1985-86                        
1986-87 NBL D2 16 3 13 6 0 0 0 8th      

NBL D1 = National Basketball Division 1 / NBL D2 = National Basketball League Division 2 / Pos = Final Position / W = Top Four Playoff Winners / F = Top Four Finalists / SF = Top Four Semi-Finalists / R = Relegated

References:

Bibliography

[1] Shannon, Kieran (2009) “Hanging from the Rafters: The story of Neptune and the Golden Age of Irish Basketball” Appendix Section 1: The Irish Men’s Game: The Complete Records: National League Tables and Top Four semi-finals and Finals. Pp. 516-527.

Magazine Articles

[2] (1984) “National League 1983-84”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. October 1984.

[3] (1985) “Final Standings”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Autumn 1985.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Denis Culhane

About this document

Researched, compiled and written by Enda Mulcahy for the

Eirball | Irish, North American & World Sports Archive

Last Updated: 24 September 2019

(c) Copyright Enda Mulcahy and Eirball 2019

You may quote this document in part provided that proper acknowledgement is given to the authors. All Rights Reserved.

Galway Democrats | Irish Basketball Team | Season 1991-92

IBBA Men’s NBL Southern Conference Table 1991-92

PWLPts
Southern Conference
Burgerland Neptune2219338
North Monastery 96’ers2218436
Garvey’s Tigers Tralee2216632
Whirlpool Blue Demons22121024
Marathon22101220
Lucozade Sport Killester2281416
Marian2261612
Galway Democrats224188

Reference: [1]

Results

WeekDateH/AOppositionW/LScore
105.10.91HBlue DemonsW89-69
212.10.91AKillesterW77-68
319.10.91AConnacht Gold BallinaL61-87
Cup R126.10.91ASt. Declan’s CabraW54-48
402.11.91HSligo All-StarsL83-87
509.11.91AMarathon LimerickL86-90
6
723.11.91HNorth Monastery 96ersW73-64
830.11.91AAnnadale-QueensL76-94
907.12.91HStar of the SeaL63-83
1014.12.91AGarvey’s Tigers TraleeL65-87
11
1205.01.92ABurgerland NeptuneL47-94
1311.01.92ABlue DemonsL58-81
1418.01.92HKillesterL86-88
1502.02.92AJameson St. Vincent’sL62-98
1608.02.92HSt. Gall’s BelfastW76-47
1715.02.92HMarathon LimerickL71-81
1822.02.92ANorth Monastery 96ersL57-87
1929.02.92HGarvey’s Tigers TraleeL87-108
2007.03.92AMarianL59-67
2114.03.92ADungannonL58-102
2228.03.92HBurgerland NeptuneL59-110

Compiled from References: [2-21]

Roster 1991-92

PlayerPositionPoints
James Burke298
Ciaran Murphy21
John Finn23
John CarrollShooting Guard55
Richie Burke47
Douglas Collins11
Shaun Murphy (Texas-San Antonio, USA)345
Donie O’Keeffe8
Frank FordePoint Guard121
Marcus O’Grady73
Damian Moloney4
Quilty2
S. Jackson2

Compiled from References[2-21]

Match Reports

WEEK 1 – 5 October 1991 – Galway Democrats 89 Blue Demons 69

Galway Democrats created a shock on opening night of the National Basketball League with a big 89-69 win over Blue Demons of Cork. Blue Demons took an early lead as the Democrats showed first game jitters at both ends, however, they out-scored their oponents 37-14 over the last 14 minutes to take victory by 89-69. The key to the Galway sides’ success came from the complimentary play of Frank Forde (14 pts), John Carroll (17) and captain James Burke (15), with American Shaun Murphy leading the scoring on 25 points. The Blue Demons were led by American Boo Moore (24 pts), Mark Scannell (10) and Brian Burke (10)

Galway Democrats: James Burke (c) (15), Ciaran Murphy (2), John Finn (0), John Carroll (17), Richie Burke (8), Douglas Collins (4), Shaun Murphy (25), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Frank Forde (14).

Blue Demons: Brian Burke (10), Boo Moore (24), David Twomey (12), F. O’Sullivan (4), P. O’Sullivan (2), M. McCarthy (0), T. Manning (2), Mark Scannell (10), J. Cambridge (5).

Reference: [2]

WEEK 2 – 12 October 1991 – Killester 68 Galway Democrats 77

Galway Democrats created another surprise in week 2 with a shock win over Dubliners Killester. Captain James Burke put in a superlative performance for the Westerners, scoring 34 points as American Shaun Murphy continued his steady, if unspectacular, play, netting 19 points, along with 25 rebounds and six blocked shots. James’ brother Richie Burke also contributed 10 points towards the win. Killester had jumped out to a 7-0 lead and had led 15-7 after 6 minutes, but Galway went on an 8-point unanswered scoring streak in the second quarter, with six from Ciaran Murphy. Galway went in 33-30 ahead at the break as Killester’s American, Bill Coffey was held in check for the final 14 minutes of the half.

The two teams traded baskets early in the third, but Killester went ahead as Liam Dowling and John Clancy scored 13 unanswered points between them to give them a 56-51 lead, however, their American, Coffey, was fouled out after picking up his fifth foul, and the Galway side finished on a 10-2 run, winning in the end 77-68.

Killester: Bill Coffey (20), M. Grennell (13), P. Grennell (12), Connelly (2), McKay (4), Keating (0), Liam Dowling (6), McLaughlin (0), Conley (0), John Clancey (10).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (34), Ciaran Murphy (2), Shaun Murphy (19), John Carroll (4), Frank Forde (4), Marcus O’Grady (4), John Finn (0), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Richie Burke (10), Douglas Collins (0).

Reference: [3]

WEEK 3 – 19 October 1991 – Connacht Gold Ballina 87 Galway Democrats 61

The Galway Democrats series of shock wins to open the season came to an end in Week 3 as they went down to a heavy defeat to the Top Mayo side. Ballina moved to a 3-0 record, with Democrats dropping to 2-1. Ballina got off to a 4-0 lead before John Carroll got the Democrats started with a 3-pointer. James Burke lifted the Galway side into a 21-9 lead after 10 minutes, scoring 8 of 10 ponts in one Democrats stretch, giving the travelling fans real hope of a third upset in as many weeks, but big performances from American Deora Marsh and Paul McStay saw the Mayo side go in front, as they pulled away to a 33-23 lead, and going in 43-34 ahead at the break.

Galway toughened the second half out, but Ballna, led by Liam McHale and Deora Marsh, were too quick on the break, and too strong for a smaller Galway side, with American Shaun Murphy Double-Teamed on every posession, and limited to 6 points in the second half. Several slam dunks from Marsgh delighted the home crowd, and aggressive steals, and a defense that was holding Galway to few baskets put the game beyond doubt, as Ballina raced out to a 71-43 lead. The substitutes bench was used liberally in last few minutes, as Ballina ran out 87-61 winners. McHale (24 pts), Marsh (20 and Paul McStay (14) were standouts for Ballina, while James Burke (19), John Carroll (15) and Shaun Murphy (14) were the top players for Galway Democrats.

Galway Democrats: James Burke (19), Ciaran Murphy (2), Shaun Murphy (14), John Carroll (15), Frank Forde (4), Marcus O’Grady (2), John Finn (2), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Richie Burke (3), Douglas Collins (0).

Connacht Gold Ballina: Liam McHale (24), Deora Marsh (20), Paul McStay (14).

Reference: [4]

CUP ROUND 1 – 26 October 1991 – St. Declan’s Cabra 48 Galway Democrats 54

Galway Democrats got back to winning ways in Dublin, defeating St. Declan’s in Cabra, 54-48 in the Cup. Tight rims in the Aughrim Street venue possibly led to poor shooting from both sides, as tentaive offense kept the score low for both sides.

St. Declan’s went into an early 9-4 lead with Kit Walsh scoring a three-pointer and netting another basket, but Galway responded, going 15-14 ahead on a Shaun Murphy basket, as the American helped the Democrats into a 21-16 lead aided by Marcus O’Grady. The rest of the half saw the teams trade baskets, and the lead, as Galway went 33-26 ahead at the half.

St. Declan’s scored 10 points early in the second half to go 38-35 up, but Galway followed that up with a run of its own, scoring 8 points in-a-row on free throws, and adding a basket from Shaun Murphy, as they went 45-43 ahead with four minutes to go. Kit walsh bombed a three-pointer to put St. Declan’s up again, before Murphy responded for Galway. Jim Liston put the Cabra side back on top but Walsh was fouled out and St. Declan’s would fail to score another basket, as Frank Forde calmly hit a huge three-pointer with a minute to go to give the Democrats a 51-48 lead, which they would hold onto till the end. Galway’s American was the star of the game, Shaun Murphy scoring 18 points and getting 15 blocked shots to set up the offense. James Burke also starred for Galway, netting 16, while St. Declan’s were led by Kit Walsh on 16 and Scott McCarthy (10).

St. Declan’s J. Liston (7), P. Liston (4), Kit Walsh (16), O’Connor (0), McDonagh (2), Rogers (0), Flynn (0), McGurk (5), Scott McCarthy (10), O’Reilly (4).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (16), Ciaran Murphy (0), Shaun Murphy (18), John Carroll (2), Frank Forde (3), Marcus O’Grady (6), John Finn (2), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Richie Burke (7), Douglas Collins (0).

Reference: [5]

WEEK 4 – 2 November 1991 – Galway Democrats 83 Sligo All-Stars 87

Galway Democrats were brought crashing back down earth after their early season series of shock wins, as they were defeated by Sligo All-Stars in this Connacht derby in Renmore. Galway failed to take advantage of several missed free-throws and turnovers by Sligo as they missed several key shots in the final few minutes, but Sligo won through their American Skip Barry, and guard Michael Murray, who netted crucial baskets.

James Burke got the game rolling for Galway with an early three-pointer, and he got 10 of Galway’s next 12 points as they went into an early 15-10 lead. Michael Murray matched James Burke, and scored 8 of his own to keep the game close, and added 6 more in an 8-point unanswered scoring run for the Yeats County team, as they went 19-15 ahead. American Shaun Murphy scored 5 straight to tie the game at 21-each and Burke and Murphy combined to give Galway a 35-34 lead at the half, with Murray responding to Galway all the way.

Burke and Murray went on a scoring streak for Galway early in the second half as they went on a 15-0 scoring run, but Sligo surprisingly held on with the play of Mal daly, Peter Galvin and Joe Coughlin bringing them back to 50-46 down. Skip Murray got hot for Sligo in the crucial last 10 minutes as led them to 75-66 lead with less than 4 minutes to play. Baskets were trade towards the end leaving it 84-80 to Sligo, but Galway couldn’t take advantage at the free-throw line towards the end on a number of Sligo fouls, and the All-Stars hung on for a 87-83 victory. Murray (27) Barry (26) led Sligo, and Galway were led by Frank Forde on 12 points.

Galway Democrats: James Burke, Shaun Murphy, Frank Forde (12), Marcus O’Grady, Ciaran Murphy.

Sligo All-Stars: Skip Barry, Michael Murray, Mal Daly, Peter Galvin, Joe Coughlin, Grimes

Reference: [6]

WEEK 5 – 9 November 1991 – Marathon Limerick 90 Galway Democrats 86

For the second week in-a-row Galway were defeated by four points in a tough match with a West Coast side, matches they would have fancied winning given their early season form. American Shaun Murphy got a season high 43 points for Galway, but the 3-point accuracy of guards Pascal Brennan, Trevor Moore and Tony Hehir, as well as 30 points from American Bo Fritz saw Limericj take the spoils.

Galway played on of their better matches of the season, as Murphy opened with a 3-pointer, and Galway went up 7-2 early on. Limerick answered through Fitts and Hehir to make it 9-7, and the lead changed hands 8 times over the next 12 minutes, before Galway went 35-26 up for their biggest lead of the half. Marathon responded, however, and the game was tied 45-all at the half time buzzer.

Fine scoring from Shaun Murphy, Frank Forde and Marcus O’Grady saw Galway take a 65-55 lead, their biggest of the game, but with 4 minutes remaining Limerick had overtaken Galway, leading 75-71 after a 12-1 scoring run over 7 minutes. Galway faltered, and Limerick’s three-point accuracy proved the decisive margin, as they outscored Galway 10-2 on three-point play. Shaun Murphy was top scorer for Galway on 43 points, while James Burke (12), Frank Forde (11) and Marcus O’Grady (10) all shone for the Westerners. Limerick’s top players were Fitts (30), Moore (12), Brennan (15), Holloway (9), Barry (8) and Hehir (8).

Galway Democrats: Shaun Murphy (43), James Burke (12), Frank Forde (11), Marcus O’Grady (10).

Martahon Limerick: Bo Fritts (30), Trevor Moore (12), Pascal Brennan (15), Vincent Holloway (9), Barry (8), Tony Hehir (8).

Reference: [7]

WEEK 6 – Galway Democrats 73 North Monastery 96ers 64

Galway Democrats pulled off another shock win in the NBL, after two close losses the previous weeks, as they beat a fancied North Mon team 73-64. The Democrats moved into a tie for second place in the Southern Conference with this win, boosting their hopes of a playoff place. This match wasn’t decided until the last minute of play and there were 18 lead changes and 13 ties in the game.

Galway Democrats went into an early 10-5 lead behind the baskets of James Burke, Damiam Moloney and Shaun Murphy, but highly rated Ukrainian Mircha Kojeljank scored 7 straight points for North Mon to put the Cork side 12-10 up at 7 minutes. Murphy responed with 10 straight for Galway, and North Mon levelled it on 22-apiece with the scores of McHale, Finnegan, Lehane, Galgey and Dolan. Kojeljank put North Mon 29-26 up with a 3-pointer, James Burke put Galway back in front with 4 minutes to go to the break. Galway retook the lead and held on 36-34 up at the half-time buzzer as Kojeljank and Heaphy missed free throws for North Mon.

North Mon missed 12 free throws which proved the difference between the sides as North Mon tied the game at the start of the second half. The lead changed hands a number of times during the third period as Murphy put Galway 61-60 up with three minutes to go and set the stage for a furious finish. Lehane tied the game and missed a second free throw and Burke put Galway back on top for good, as they held on for a 73-64 win. James Burke (23), Frank Forde (24) and Shaun Murphy (20) were the heroes for Galway, and North Mon’s stars were Kojeljank and McHale, their only two players in double figures as Galway defense, in particular, Finn, Moloney and Forde held firm.

North Monastery 96ers: Kojeljank (23), McHale (11), O’Reilly (2), Galgey (8), Finnegan (4), Hennigan (0), Dolan (2), Murphy (2), Lehane (6), Heaphy (6).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (23), Ciaran Murphy (0), Shaun Murphy (20), John Carroll (0), Frank Forde (14), Marcus O’Grady (8), John Finn (4), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Richie Burke (0), Damian Moloney (4).

Reference: [8]

WEEK 7 – 30 November 1991 – Annadale-Queens 94 Galway Democrats 76

Galway Democrats continued their rollercoaster form in the NBL, losing to Annadle-Queens a week after pulling off another shock. The Belfast side ran out comfortable winners in the last five minutes as Galway fell flat after pulling within one point halfway through the second half.

Galway’s offense was amaemic in the last few minutes as Shaun Murphy, their American, netted 13 of their last 16 points in the final 10 minutes. Annadale-Queens’ hustling, aggressive defense deserves credit for the victory, as they frustrated Galway, and forced crucial turnovers in the last 10 minutes. Murphy (25), James Burke (22) and Marcus O’Grady (20) scored 67 of Galway 76 points. Bill Singleton led Annadale with 29 pts, and Fergus Donnelly (23) and Jim Edgar (12) shone for the Belfast side as their supporting cast outscored Galway’s 30-9.

Annadale-Queens: Fergus Donnelly (23), Bill Singleton (29), Jim Edgar (12), Jazz Mooney (6), Elliot (5), Kelly (9), McCotter (7), Donghay (4), McCotter (0).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (22), Ciaran Murphy (5), Shaun Murphy (25)), Quilty (0), Frank Forde (2), Marcus O’Grady (20), John Finn (0), Jackson (0), Richie Burke (2).

Reference: [9]

Week 8 – 7 December 1991 – Galway Democrats 63 Star of the Sea 83

Galway Democrats came unprepared for this match, with a malfunctioning PA system in Renmore, and players and officials scrambling to provide seating for the spectators just before the start. Galway were flat throughout, and Star of the Sea outplayed them in every position.

Star ran a “precisioned, unselfish scheme” that frustrated Galway and allowed time run out. James Burke led Galway with 19 points and was backed up by Shaun Murphy (14) and Marcus O’Grady (10). Javan Dupree top-scored for Star of the Sea with 35, and Gareth Maguire (22) and John O’Hare (8) also shone. It was the defensive display of Adrian Fulton (3), however, that gave the Belfast side the edge.

Star of the Sea: Javan Dupree (35), Garteh Maguire (22), Kennedy (0), Ward (6), McGettrick (1), Peter McGrattan (5), Mccreaney (2), Adrian Fulton (3), Whiteside (0), John O’Hare (8).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (19), Ciaran Murphy (4), Shaun Murphy (14), Quilty (2), Frank Forde (4), Marcus O’Grady (10), John Finn (1), Donie O’Keeffe (2), Richie Burke (2), John Carroll (2).

Reference: [10]

WEEK 9 – 14 December 1991 – Garvey’s Tralee Tigers 87 Galway Democrats 65

Galway Democrats lost their third match in-a-row in the NBL in Tralee, to a talented line-up of Darren McGuinness, Cormac O’Donoghue and American Ray Lettsome who combined for 68 of Tralee’s 87 points.

Lettsome muscled his way to 31 points, while McGuinness quietly added 21 for Tralee. Shan Murphy led the scoring for Galway with 20 and James Burke (16) and brother Richie Burke (10) also scored in double figures. Galway dropped to 3-6 in the NBL, after a promising start.

Galway Democrats: James Burke (16), Shaun Murphy (20), Richie Burke (10).

Garvey’s Tralee Tigers: Ray lettsome (31), Darren McGuinness (21), Cormac O’Donoghue (16).

Reference: [11]

WEEK 11 – 5 January 1992 – Burgerland Neptune 94 Galway Democrats 47

Burgerland Neptune showed their class and Galway Democrats’ slide continued as the Cork side ran out easy 94-47 winners in a scoreline that was every bit as lopsided as the play, reflecting accurately how well Neptune played, and how poorly Galway did also.

Galway lacked support for American Shaun Murphy (16) and James Burke (17) as the rest of the team managed only 14 points between them. Terry Strickland (20) led the way for Neptune, while there were also star turns from Brendan O’Flaherty (14), Alan Kelly (13), Paul Kelly (12) and Tom O’Sullivan (10).

Burgerland Neptune: S Woods (5), Terry Strickland (20), S. McCarthy (8), Brendan O’Flaherty (14), Alan Kelly (13), Paul Kelly (12), C. O’Sullivan (4), I. McLean (7), Tom O’Sullivan (10).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (17), S. Jackson (2), Shaun Murphy (16), Richie Burke (2), Frank Forde (2), Donie O’Keeffe (2), John Finn (2), John Carroll (4).

Reference: [12]

WEEK 12 – 11 January 1992 – Blue Demons 81 Galway Democrats 58

Cork’s Blue Demons got revenge for their shock opening game loss to Galway, as they jumped out to a 45-20 half-time lead on the back of American Anthony Jenkins’ 23 points. They sailed home the rest of the way as they ran out easy winners.

Jenkins scored a massive 41 points for Blue Demons, and was aided by Mark scannell (11), Derek Toomey (9), and Brian Burke (8). Shaun Murphy (15) led the way for Galway, with James Burke netting 14 and John Carroll (13).

Blue Demons: Anthony Jenkins (41), Mark Scannell (11), Mike McCarthy, Mark Cambridge, Tom Manning, Ciaran O’Sullivan (4), Francis O’Sullivan (4), Paul Fitzgerald (4), Derek Toomey (9), Brian Burke (8).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (14), John Carroll (11), Shaun Murphy (15), Richie Burke (6), Frank Forde (6), Donie O’Keeffe (4), Ciaran Murphy (2).

Reference: [13]

WEEK 13 – 18 January 1992 – Killester 88 Galway Democrats 86

Galway Democrats made a comeback effort in Killester as they came from 83-71 down in the final four minutes to trail by two, but their spirited comeback fell short as their last second shot rimmed off.

Shaun Murphy returned to early season form for Galway, top-scoring on 41 points, and James Burke added 18 and Frank Forde 9. Killester’s American Bill Coffey scored 33 and was aided by John Clancy (17) and Kevin conroy (11).

Killester: Bill Coffey (33), John Clancy (17), Kevin Conroy (11).

Galway Democrats: Shaun Murphy (41), James Burke (18), Frank Forde (9).

Reference: [14]

WEEK 15 – 1 February 1992 – James St. Vincent’s 98 Galway Democrats 62

St. Vincent’s opened up a 20 point lead midway through the first period as the Glasnevin side ran out 98-62 winners.

Jameson St. Vincent’s controlled rebounds and kept Galway’s American, Shaun Murphy, from the ball, as they sprinted to easy baskets time and again. Laverne Evans led the scoring with 32 for St. Vincent’s and was backed up by Karl Donnelly (16), Pat Boylan (16) and John Fitzgerald (11). Frank Forde scored 11 for Galway and James Burke netted 8.

Jameson St. Vincent’s: Laverne Evans (32), Keenan (6), Nutley (3), Pat Boylan (16), O’Keeffe (6), John Fitzgerald (11), Gilligan (4), Boylan 95), Sullivan (6), Karl Donnelly (16).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (8), John Finn (2), Shaun Murphy (30), Richie Burke (0), Frank Forde (11), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Ciaran Murphy (4), Douglas Collins (7).

Reference: [15]

WEEK 16 – 8 February 1992 – Galway Democrats 76 St. Gall’s Belfast 47

Galway Democrats turned around a frustrating losing streak, and after a few poor performances and close defeats, managed to come alive against St. Gall’s, routing them in a convincing 76-47 victory.St. Gall’s only managed 11 points over the last 10 minutes as Galway never let up the intensity and ran away with their easiest win of the season, and surpassed last years total number of team victories with 7 games to play.

James Burke top-scored with 28 points for Galway, and was followed by Shaun Murphy’s 16, and Ciaran Murphy’s 8. Frank Forde and Douglas Collins netted 6 each. Gerald Kennedy worked hard for 25 for St. Gall’s and Gerald Ryan added 8.

Galway Democrats: James Burke (28), John Carroll (2), Shaun Murphy (16), Richie Burke (0), Frank Forde (6), Donie O’Keeffe (0), Ciaran Murphy (8), Douglas Collins (6), John Finn (4), Marcus O’Grady (4).

St. Gall’s Belfast: Gerald Ryan (8), B. McKee (2), S. Donnelly (2), G. Adams (0), E. McAteer (7), E. Morris (3), S. Kennedy (2), J. Kennedy (2), Gerald Kennedy (25).

Reference: [16]

WEEK 17 – 15 February 1992 – Galway Democrats 71 Marathon Limerick 81

Marathon Limerick snapped a losing streak as Galway returned to losing ways, squandering a big lead. Galway democrats led 40-27 at the half, but their offense broke down in the second half, and Limerick clawed their way back into it, and overtook the Galway side with five minutes to go, running out 81-71 winners.

Shaun Murphy led the Galway attack with 27, James Burke adding 18 and Frank Forde 13. Moore (12), Barry (13) and Hehir (11) top-scored for Marathon.

Marathon Limerick: Fitz, Barry (13), Moore (12), Barry, Coyne, Doudy, Hickey, Walsh, Hehir (11).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (18), Ciaran Murphy, Shaun Murphy (27), John Carroll, Frank Forde (13), Marcus O’Grady, John Finn, Donie O’Keeffe, Richie Burke.

Reference: [17]

WEEK 18 – 29 February 1992 – Galway Democrats 87 Garvey’s Tralee Tigers 108

A good effort from Democrats wasn’t enough to prevent them losing again, to Tralee Tigers, at home in Renmore. Galway fell behind by 15 at half-time and 20 early in the second half, but clawed their way back to 9 behind, before time ran out.

Ray Lettsome was two strong for Galway, netting 42 points, and McGuinness, O’Donoghue and Daly also hit double figures for Tigers. Shaun Murphy led the points tally for Galway with 24 and was backed up by James Burke (16) and Marcus O’Grady (13).

Galway Democrats: Shaun Murphy (24), James Burke (16), Marcus O’Grady (13)

Garvey’s Tralee Tigers: Ray Lettsome (42), McGuinness, O’Donoghue, Daly.

Reference: [18]

WEEK 19 – 7 March 1992 – Marian 67 Galway Democrats 59

Marian had a close win over Galway Democrats. A. Fearon top-scored for Marian with 21, and E. Randolph and J. Hanglow also starred. James Burke netted 17 for Galway, with Shaun Murphy (16) and Frank Forde (12) getting double figures.

Marian: A. Fearon (21), E. Randolph (19), J. Hanglow (11).

Galway Democrats: Shaun Murphy (16), James Burke (17), Frank Forde (12).

Reference: [19]

WEEK 20 – 14 March 1992 – Dungannon 102 Galway Democrats 58

Galway Democrats slumped to a heavy defeat in Tyrone as Dungannon won 102-58. J. Brennan scored 19 for Dungannon and J. Feeney (15) and T. O’Keeffe (14) also scored double figures. James Burke scored a massive 30 for Galway, but the rest of the team provided little back-up, John Finn scoring 10, and Richie Burke 7, the best of the team.

Dungannon: J. Brennan (19), J. Feeney (15), T. O’Keeffe (14).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (30), John Finn (10), Richie Burke (7).

Reference: [20]

WEEK 22- 28 March 1992 – Galway Democrats 59 Burgerland Neptune 110

Galway Democrats fell to their seventh loss in-a-row to end the season on 4-18 and bottom of the table, as Burgerland Neptune finished top of the Southern Conference on 1903.

Terry Strickland netted 24 for Neptune, Paul Kelly 20 and Tom O’Sullivan 19. Galway were led by James Burke (28), Donie O’Keeffe (13) and John Carroll (13).

Burgerland Neptune: Terry Strickland (24), Paul Kelly (20), Tom O’Sullivan (19).

Galway Democrats: James Burke (28), Donie O’Keeffe (13), John Carroll (13)

Reference: [21]

References:

[1] (1992) “Budweiser Superleague Finals”. IBA Official Basketball Magazine. Number 21. April 1992 pp. 17

[2] Anon. (1991) “Galway Democrats shock Blue Demons in season opener”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, October 8, 1991. pg. 14

[3] Anon. (1991) “Burke stars as Demos upset Killester in basketball league”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, October 15, 1991. pg. 13

[4] Anon. (1991) “Democrats come a cropper”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, October 22, 1991. pg. 20

[5] Anon. (1991) “Murphy in top form as Demos advance in Cup”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, October 29, 1991. pg. 12

[6] Anon. (1991) “High-flying Democrats are brought back to earth!”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, November 5, 1991. pg. 18

[7] Anon. (1991) “Democrats are edged out in National League for second week running”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, November 12 1991. pg. 15

[8] Anon. (1991) “Galway Democrats pull off another shock win in Irish basketball league”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, November 26, 1991. pg. 17

[9] Anon. (1991) “Erratic Democrats come a cropper in Belfast”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, December 3, 1991. pg. 17

[10] Anon. (1991) “Bad night all-round for Galway Democrats”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, December 10, 1991. pg. 19

[11] Anon. (1991) “Third defeat in a row for out of sorts Democrats”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, December 17, 1991. pg. 19

[12] Anon. (1992) “Democrats slide continues as Neptune show their class”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, January 7, 1992. pg. 15

[13] Anon. (1992) “Understrength Democrats suffer another heavy defeat”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, January 14, 1992. pg. 15

[14] Anon. (1992) “Another loss as Democrats gallant rally just fails”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, January 21, 1992. pg. 12

[15] Anon. (1991) “Democrats have no answer to Jameson”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, February 4, 1992. pg. 15

[16] Anon. (1992) “Democrats bounce back to winning form after string of defeats”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, February 11, 1992. pg. 15

[17] Anon. (1992) “Democrats squander big lead and return to losing ways”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, February 18, 1992. pg. 14

[18] Anon. (1992) “Honourble defeat for Democrats”. Connacht Sentinel. Tuesday, March 3, 1992. pg. 16

[19] Cliona Foley (1992) “Naomh Mhuire kiss Blarney goodbye to clinch second”. Irish Independent. Monday, March 9, 1992. pp. 27.

[20] Cliona Foley (1992) “North Mon plough into stars”. Irish Independent. Monday, march 16, 1992. pp. 24.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to John Folan.

About this document

Researched, compiled and written by Enda Mulcahy for the

Eirball | Irish North American and World Sports Archive

Last Updated: 23 March 2019

(c) Copyright Enda Mulcahy and Eirball 2019

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