Press Release

Apr 16 2026

30 schools learn pairings for Basketball Ireland's Jr. NBA Programme 2026

The 10 participating schools and their local schools have learned their affiliated NBA teams following the 2026 draft for Basketball Ireland's Jr. NBA programme.

Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh, Tralee have been paired with the defending NBA Champions, Oklahoma City Thunder, Gaelscoil Mhic Easmain - also from Tralee - will be linked to last year's beaten finalists, the Indiana Pacers, while Liscannor NS have been given the Minnesota Timberwolves, the parent team to the Iowa Wolves, where Irish international CJ Fulton is currently playing his rookie season in the G-League.

The Jr. NBA programme will culminated with the Jr. NBA Festival of Fun at the National Basketball Arena on Wednesday, May 20th, where all participants will make the trip to Tallaght for a day of skills, games and education from current and former players and coaches at National League and international level.

 Jr. NBA participant play a game of 3x3 basketball at the 2025 Jr. NBA Festival of Fun at the National Basketball Arena.

The primary goal of the Jr. NBA in Ireland, which is in its seventh year, is to provide a fun opportunity for children to be introduced to basketball. Basketball Ireland want to ensure that everybody taking part in the programme has the same goal; to give young players an engaging introduction to the sport. It's a great, non-competitive way for schools to start their journey in basketball.

If you wish to learn more about the Jr. NBA programme, click here.