The headlines read; CJ Fulton: A Belfast Baller in the NBA Summer League.
The Belfast-born guard has officially been named to the Minnesota Timberwolves roster for the 2025 NBA Summer League — a landmark moment in the history of Irish basketball.
At just 22 years old, CJ becomes the first Irish-born, Irish-developed male athlete to reach this level of the NBA pathway, representing not only his club, family, and city of Belfast — but an entire island of hopeful young players.
“This is more than just a milestone,” said Marc Mulholland, Vice Chair of BNI . “It’s a moment of belief — a reminder that dreams from Belfast can echo all the way to the NBA.”
CJ’s ascent through the basketball ranks is a testament to the development of the Irish basketball system and local development. He developed through Belfast Star Basketball Club and St. Malachy’s College, represented Ireland at both junior and senior levels, and played domestically in the Basketball Ireland Super League. A year at a U.S. prep school opened the door to NCAA Division I opportunities, and he went on to compete with Lafayette College and the College of Charleston.
Unlike the only Irish NBA, Pat Burke, who developed in the U.S. after emigrating at age three — CJ remained in Northern Ireland through his formative years, proving that local pathways can lead to global stages.
CJ is the third generation in a storied basketball lineage. His grandfather, Irish Hall of Famer Coach Danny Fulton, was a foundational figure in Irish basketball, while his father, Adrian Fulton, is a former Irish international and highly respected coach in the Irish Super League and assistant coach on the Senior Men’s panel for a vast number of years.
“This journey belongs not only to CJ, but to the entire Fulton family and the Irish basketball community that helped shape him. All supported by his personal dedication, sacrifice and humility. ” said Marc Mulholland.
Standing 6’3″, CJ brings a high-IQ, pass-first style of play that aligns with the evolving, team-centric, and European-influenced nature of today’s NBA. His competitiveness, court vision, and leadership — paired with his academic sharpness — make him a true modern basketball prospect.
CJ’s NBA Summer League call-up is a breakthrough moment that will inspire countless young players across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
For every child dreaming on local courts today, CJ’s story proves they don’t need to leave home to begin their journey. This is proof that Irish basketball talent belongs on the world stage.
The Board of Basketball Northern Ireland, our clubs and basketball community is in full support of CJ and his family. Wishing him every success as he joins the Timberwolves this summer in Las Vegas.
Enjoy every step CJ, we’re with you and your family all the way!
You can watch the summer league here starting July 10th : NBA LEAGUE PASS
