Belfast Star take on Ulster University in local derby at all new Newforge Sport Complex!

A Ryan Reunion as two brothers go head to head in the battle of Belfast in the Basketball Ireland Super League this weekend at all new Newforge Sports Complex.

Basketball NI would like to wish the two team the best of luck at this Saturday’s Basketball Ireland Super League derby between league leaders Belfast Star and their noisy neighbour’s UU in the battle of Belfast. Belfast Star will be hoping to come away with the win in their first game at their new home, the Newforge Sports Complex. Meanwhile Ulster University, will be contesting to come away with a win as they battle to avoid regulation.


The game will also see a family reunion of the Ryan brothers, Adam Ryan of UU and Conor Ryan of Belfast Star, as well as Belfast Star assistant coach and father of the brothers, Gerard. We caught up with the Ryan brothers ahead of the big game on Saturday…

Honestly, I try and treat it as just another game in the season. However, I’d be lying if I didn’t say this matchup is different given I’ve grown up playing for Star as well as the family relations and great friends I have within the club. Coming up against Conor on the court and our Dad on the opposite coaching staff was definitely strange the first time around but something I enjoyed and believe is an achievement for our family. I think the most difficult thing will be for our Mum to choose which bench she sits behind on Saturday!

Adam Ryan, Ulster University

We are very excited for the game on Saturday. Ulster are a tough side to come up against and they’ll be looking to bounce back after a narrow loss to Moycullen and a loss to a strong Éanna side in recent weeks. We expect a close game and are excited for a great atmosphere at Newforge.

Personally, this fixture has an additional rivalry as I come up against my brother, Adam. It’s definitely strange playing against him after playing together for a lot of years, but it adds to the excitement surrounding the game.

Conor Ryan, Belfast Star

The game will take place at the newly renovated Newforge Sports Complex. After some time the lines have been painted, the hoops have been installed and the nets have been hung. Here’s to many memorable and magical moments on this new court.

Whether you are a Star Super Fan or alumni of UU this will be a great game to see for the basketball community, make sure to call down this Saturday, 6:30pm at the Newforge Sports Complex. Tickets can be bought at the door.


updated 15.02.24

Belfast Basketball Game grabs attention.

On this weeks local news sports round up the BBC, reported on the opening of the new New Forge Sports Complex, the new home of Belfast Star. Star hosted Ulster University game on Saturday in their new home. Belfast Star took home the victory in their new home court with a 97-77 victory.


The game picked up attention from media giant BBC on this weeks sports round up as shown in the video below.

video taken from BBC News, local sports round up.

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