Great news from the world of Irish basketball today. Belfast teen basketball phenom CJ Fulton has decided to move to America to pursue his dream of a professional basketball career. From September, Fulton will attend the Wichendon School in Massachusetts, not far from Boston. Wichendon is a high school - one of the famed American 'prep schools' - which will give him a one-year audition for America's university circuit.
Fulton, who plays with Belfast Star and was voted SuperLeague Young Player of the Year for the 2019-20 season, turned down offers to join academies in Florida and Spain. He spoke to the Belfast Telegraph about his decision to head to the States.
"It was a massive decision for me, leaving family and friends behind, going out of my comfort zone and leaving Belfast Star but I wanted to challenge myself and develop as a basketball player and in life generally. So, I've got some trepidation but also excitement about the thought of going to the States.
"The fact that I had helped play my part in bringing the Superleague title back to Star did help me feel more comfortable about making the move. I always wanted to be part of a team that gave the club some silverware and to do it with my dad as coach and my granda as assistant coach was extra special - that's something I'll cherish for the rest of my life.
"The league I'm going to be in is very, very competitive and the season will be gruelling. It starts in December and runs to March with about three games a week. It will be a whole new experience and one that I believe will improve me as a player a lot. At the moment I'm just trying to stay fit at home.
Fulton's dad and current coach is Adrian Fulton, one of the best players in the history of Irish basketball. CJ became an internet sensation when he made 15 three-pointers in the U16 schools final three years ago.
In other exciting news from Irish basketball, Pennsylvania prep school Hill announced Tralee's Rap Buivydas is will be attending the school from next year.
Hill Basketball is excited to welcome Rapolas “Rap” Buivydas from Tralee, Ireland to our family. A 6’7 forward, Rap will join the Hill Class of 2021. Check out his highlights from last summer’s European Championship:… https://t.co/Ds07rYLYDN
— Hill Boys Basketball (@HillBBasketball) April 13, 2020
