Cian Sullivan was back in Ireland at the weekend. The 7' 2" Kerryman's La Salle University played at the Basketball Hall of Fame Belfast Classic, a college basketball tournament.
It's two years since Sullivan (wearing number 31 in the picture above) signed papers of intent to play for La Salle University where he was given a five-year scholarship.
He had moved to the US to play at a prep school, hoping to enhance his chances of being spotted by college scouts. The decision worked out when he was spotted by two La Salle coaches.
Sullivan didn't play last year as he adapted to life with the NCAA Division 1 side. He's played in just four games this season. Though, encouragingly for Sullivan, La Salle head coach John Giannini likes what he sees.
Speaking to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Gianni said that he thought Sullivan was going to be a project player, someone with the right physical attributes but maybe not the skills. He was wrong.
I quickly discovered I was mistaken. He made shots, he made free throws, he ran easily, caught the ball well. He’s offensively skilled, no awkwardness to his offensive abilities at all.
It’s really just continuing to get stronger and improving his reactions playing against smaller, quicker guys which, when you’re that size, that’s almost everyone you play against.
Gianni also added that Sullivan, who is from Tralee, has a personality which makes him tough not to like.
"He’s very sincere. He always tries hard at everything he does. He’s trustworthy. He’s a fun guy to be around, plus he has outstanding character."
