Limerick Celtics made the best possible start to life in the Domino's Men’s Super League, defeating Ballincollig 88-87 on their top-flight debut.
Finn Hughes jump shot in the final 16 seconds secured victory in front of a packed UL Arena. A three attempt by Ballincollig’s Adrian O’Sullivan rimmed out as Tony Hehir’s side secured victory.
The returning Abdul Wurie and AJ Williams had 21 and 18 points respectively for Limerick Celtics, while their new American Austin Rotroff posted 20 points and 14 rebounds for the victors. Latrell Jossell top scored for Ballincollig on 23 points.
Defending champions UCC Demons defeated Energywise Ireland Neptune 115-105 on Friday night, Shariff Black scoring 25 points in their win.
The Kerry derby went in favour of Flexachem KCYMS, defeating Garvey’s Tralee Warriors 83-76 at Killorglin Sports Complex.
The home side had a 15-point advantage - 44-29 at half-time - but the Warriors got within five midway through the third quarter following Jordan Perkins’ three.
Ireland international Jordan Blount was instrumental in the win, hitting a game-high 26 points along with 13 rebounds, with eight points in the final quarter to steer his team home.
There were two Dublin derbies on the opening night. The first saw UCD Marian ease to a 101-79 success over Griffith College Éanna, Tanner Graham and Mihael Linde with 20 points apiece for Marian, while Ireland international Sean Jenkins hit 25 for Éanna.
The second derby saw cup champions and Super League play-off finalists Killester pick up an 85-71 road success at St Vincent’s.
Robert Braswell scored 29 points, while Josh Wilson contributed 23 in his first competitive game for Killester, since his switch from Griffith College Éanna.
Belfast Star, who are back under the stewardship of Adrian Fulton once more, had a comfortable 107-71 victory over EJ Sligo All-Stars.
Domino’s Men’s Super League results
UCC Demons 115-105 Energywise Ireland Neptune
Belfast Star 107-71 EJ Sligo All-Stars
Limerick Celtics 88-87 Ballincollig
UCD Marian 101-79 Griffith College Éanna
Flexachem KCYMS 83-76 Garvey’s Tralee Warriors
St. Vincent’s 71-85 Killester
