Statement - Portlaoise Panthers v Limerick Sport Eagles

Basketball Ireland and the National League Committee have been in regular contact with the clubs involved in the InsureMyVan.ie Division One fixture. On Monday 25^th March, the NLC informed Portlaoise Panthers that a referee’s decision cannot be overturned and the result from their game with Limerick Sport Eagles would stand, however it incorrectly stated that the club had the option to appeal to the National Appeals Committee (NAC).

On Wednesday 27^th March the National Appeals Committee ruled that the game should be replayed in its entirety. Basketball Ireland and the National League Committee acknowledge this decision by the NAC, however - as stated previously - this option to appeal to the NAC was granted in error by the National League Committee, because on-court refereeing decisions cannot be overturned.

The NLC has ruled that the fixture will not be replayed in full, however the remaining 0.3 seconds of the quarter-final is to be played this week and Basketball Ireland will be in liaison with the clubs to determine when. This decision made by the NLC – adjudged the competent body as governors of the National League in line with FIBA regulations – invokes clause C.5 of FIBA regulations which states: ‘The decision of the competent body is also considered as a field of play rule decision and is not subject to further review or appeal’.

This ruling by the NLC is taken to ensure the integrity of National League competition. The team who advances to the semi-final will play Moy Tolka Rovers, Basketball Ireland will finalise details of this fixture in due course, with the InsureMyHouse.ie Division One Playoff final to take place at the National Basketball Arena on Saturday 13^th April.

Basketball Ireland and the NLC will be making no further comment on the matter.