Second in 2016, Dwyer and hosts Ireland aim to go one better in Cork

CORK (FIBA Women’s European Championship for Small Countries 2018) – By any measure, veteran star Grainne Dwyer can be held up as a role model and one of the greats of Irish basketball.

The 33-year-old is ready to add to both her glittering resume and impressive longevity when her beloved Ireland tip-off the FIBA Women’s European Championship for Small Countries 2018 in her adopted home of Cork.

Originally from Tipperary, Dwyer has a name that is woven through the very fabric of Irish basketball circles - thanks also to her sister Niamh, who played in the States at Monmouth University.

Now, one of the most influential players of her generation believes Cork is the ideal place for Ireland to show their teeth.

“To be fair, Cork people will always support basketball, whether it’s just a league game or bigger games like National Cup semis or international stuff, we’ll always get a crowd,” she enthused.

“Cork has put plenty into Irish basketball – there’s six of us based in Cork on the team now – and it’s getting its reward in hosting a tournament like this.”

To land the precious silverware would be a dream for Dwyer, who despite now heading into the twilight of her career, never hangs back from trying to evolve her skill-set.

That is one of the biggest ticks in the box of a player who many in the Irish game continue to look up to. The way she embraced 3x3 in recent times is a prime example of her determination to keep getting better.

“It’s a much quicker, faster and more physical game than five on five is,” mused the forward.

“To be honest, with the ten-minute games, it’s a lot easier to play. To qualify for Baku was just an amazing experience and something that will stay with me.”

Adding another similarly enjoyable high tide mark is now the main aim for Dwyer as Ireland prepare to light it up for the locals.

Meanwhile, at the helm of the team is head coach, Mark Scannell. He is another person who is held in the highest regard by those in Irish basketball and like Dwyer, is also looking forward to the home comfort that Cork can offer.

“The fact that this tournament is coming to Cork is massive for myself personally and for the sport,” he added.

“Having a senior team is vital for basketball in Ireland. It is an opportunity to represent your country at the top level.

"It becomes a lot easier to hold on to players past underage, when you can offer them to play senior international basketball, because that’s something that will follow them around for the rest of their lives,” concluded the play-caller.

FIBA