Squad of 32 selected in O'Reilly's first Ireland U16 MNT roster

New Ireland U16 MNT head coach Gareth O'Reilly is 'looking forward to the challenge of putting the best squad possible together' as he announced his extended squad of 32 to work with during the coming international season.

O'Reilly - who took over from Ireland U18 MNT head coach Emer Howard - brings back Dundalk Ravens Praise Pedro after he earned 2.5 minutes per grame at FIBA Youth EuroBasket earlier this Summer while playing a year young.

Portlaoise Panthers quartet Ari Ajayi, Evan Brannagan, Ezekial Pullos and Lucas Lumanlan make the extended squad following their victory at the AIG All-Ireland Club Championships, while their opponents in that contest, Titans BC, are represented by 6'2 forward Chike Attah.

In total 15 clubs from eight counties - Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Limerick, Laois, Louth, Galway and Sligo send players to the squad, with five of O'Reilly's initial squad currently based overseas in the Australia, the UK and USA respectively. Portlaoise Panthers have the highest representation at four included, followed by St. Vincent's and Éanna BC who have three a piece. 

"After the conclusion of the talent identification process, we are delighted to announce our U16 squad and are looking forward to getting on the practice floor and beginning our preparation for the FIBA Youth EuroBasket in August, " said O'Reilly. "The opportunity to represent our country is one we don’t take lightly, and we are looking forward to working hard with the selected players in the coming weeks and months to put the best possible squad together to compete next August. Congratulations to all selected players, and a huge thank you to everyone who contributed throughout the talent identification process, as well as the club and school coaches who have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in their journey to this point."