Team NI is set to host the annual Celtic Invitational this summer, with two action-packed days of youth international basketball taking place at Newforge Sports Complex, Belfast on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July.
Following a highly successful 2024 Summer Series against Wales at U15 and U17 levels, Team NI is delighted to welcome the return of Basketball Wales—alongside a strong U16 Dublin Ladies Area Board side—for what promises to be a thrilling weekend showcasing some of the top young talent across the nations.
Andy Gill, Performance Pathway Coordinator commented, “It’s great to welcome our friends from Basketball Wales for what will be a great test for both U15 squads. We are always closely matched with Wales who will be looking to bring developments from their 4 Nations experience. There is nothing like games like this to test our young players.”
U15 Schedule – July 19th & 20th
Saturday 19th July
- Team NI U18 Women vs Dublin – 11:15am
- Team NI Boys vs Wales – 2:00pm
- Team NI Girls vs Wales – 4:00pm
Sunday 20th July
- Team NI Girls vs Wales – 10:15am
- Team NI Boys vs Wales – 12:15pm
- Team NI U17 Men vs TBC – 2:45pm
📍 Venue:
Newforge Sports Complex
18 Newforge Ln, Belfast BT9 5NW
This event represents an exciting opportunity for fans, families, and the wider basketball community to support the future stars of Team NI as they compete on home soil.
Rolandas Bartkus, Head Coach Team NI U15 Boys commented, “I’m really looking forward to the upcoming U15 Team NI weekend. It’s a great opportunity for these young basketball players to come together, challenge themselves, and represent Northern Ireland with pride. My hope is that the players not only showcase their skills on the court but also grow as a team, support one another, and enjoy the experience. We’re building a strong foundation for the future, and weekends like this are key to that journey.”
Admission is free across both days of the Celtic Invitational Weekend. With a packed schedule of high-energy matchups, it’s a perfect chance to catch some youth basketball and be part of a growing sporting movement in Northern Ireland.
We are currently seeking Table Officials to assist throughout the weekend. If you are available to help, please complete the form here.
Stay tuned for more information about The U17 weekend of the Celtic Invitational, coming in August 2025.