Trinity Men’s Basketball team completed a sensational season recently winning the Division Two Basketball Ireland League final, guaranteeing them promotion to division one next year and more recently winning the Basketball Intervarsity’s Title at University of Limerick. The basketball intervarsity final was a rematch of the Basketball Ireland League final as TCD Men’s Basketball team met SETU Waterford beating them 65 – 53 a more comfortable win compared to the 83 – 81 score line from the division two league final.
Darragh Clarke, Captain of TCD Men’s Basketball team commented, “It’s a dream come true, especially in my final year – to be with a team from the pits of division three to the top table of Collegiate Basketball is surreal and something I never could have imagined when I first got involved with the club five years ago. To finish that journey with such an amazing group is even more special, and something I’ll cherish forever.”
According to Darragh, TCD Basketball Men’s Coach, Shane Maughan was a key factor in the team success. Maughan’s dedication and impact were evident throughout the season, and Clarke described him as one of the most dedicated people he has had the pleasure of working with. Additionally, the team’s culture and bond, which Clarke described as being closer than any other team he has been a part of, played a significant role in their success.
When asked about standout moments from the season, Clarke highlighted Cian Tiernan’s last second game winner in the Division Two League final, followed by the entire squad swarming onto the court to celebrate their first league final win in decades. It was a moment that he and his teammates will cherish forever. Looking ahead to the future, Darragh mentioned that the final against Waterford SETU was his last game for TCD Basketball club, but he hopes to continue to be involved with the team as an alumni member.
Shane Maughan, TCD Men’s Basketball Coach spoke highly of the team’s commitment and dedication, describing them as a special group. He praised their work rate and belief in themselves, especially during the challenging intervarsity’s competition where they were not considered favourites to win.
Shane commented on the team’s last practice match before the intervarsity’s competition in University of Limerick, where they focused on maximising performance and achieving something special. He commented “massive credit to the players on rising to the occasion and delivering when it mattered most, as they have done consistently all season.”
TCD Men’s Basketball team success this season is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and team culture that the squad and extended team have fostered. With their sights set on division one and continued involvement of alumni, Trinity Basketball is poised to build on their momentum and continue their success in the season to come.