Ireland claimed a bronze medal in Division C at the FIBA U18 European Championships on Sunday. They did so with a dramatic late win against Monaco.
The lead changed hands numerous times in the closing stages of the game. James Connaire had given Ireland a 90-89 lead with 20 seconds to go but Monaco retook the advantage through Nils Gasser with just under ten seconds remaining on the clock.
Nathan Moore was the hero for Ireland, sinking a three-pointer with 2.9 seconds left, putting his side ahead 93-91.
"Surreal," said the Limerick player after the game.
"My heart was in my mouth because it was almost away from us. Somehow we got it back up the court. James found me, I was open. I let it go and it went in.
"It was unbelievable - everyone was in tears of joy. It's the best feeling ever."
Ireland head coach Paul Kelleher added: "We were absolutely wonderful today. It was heart-stopping stuff – we knew Monaco would come back late, they’ve done it in all of their games, but the lads did the job and it’s nice to come home with the medal too."
Neptune's Darragh O'Sullivan finished the game with 21 points, five rebounds, five assists and three steals.
The Cork man was named on the All-Star team for the tournament.
Kosovo - who defeated Ireland in the semi-final - won the gold medal after beating Cyprus in the final.
