Devoted Supercat hangs up jersey

GEELONG United Basketball has farewelled one of its longest serving players ahead of the 2024 NBL1 campaign after more than 200 games at the state level.

Former skipper and future Geelong United Supercats legend Liam McInerney was advised he would not be offered a roster spot next season, prompting the 226-game veteran to call time on his decorated career.

“I have absolutely loved being part of this team for over a decade, making the most of every single one of the 226 games I have been privileged to wear the Supercats jersey, and beyond honoured to have captained the team for two seasons,” he said.

“I have loved giving my heart and soul to the team, club, fans and community.

“I have loved the grind of the training sessions after work, road games, and video reviews, even after the hard-fought losses.

“I’ve cherished my role as the team guy who didn’t need a highlight reel to make the team successful.

“Although I feel like I could keep doing this forever, the future is coming through, and my time on this team has come to an end.

“I wish the boys nothing but the best for the seasons ahead.”

Originating from Port Campbell, McInerney first represented Basketball Geelong as an Under 16 player, competing regularly as a Vic Country representative.

McInerney pulled on the Australian singlet at the Oceania Youth Championships in New Zealand back in 2006.

Graduating from high school in Ballarat, the power forward/centre spent four years Stetson University, before debuting as a Supercat in 2013.

“Most of all, thank you to my parents, who have been my biggest supporters throughout my years with Geelong and every other bit of basketball along the way. Love you guys,” he said.

“A special mention has to go to Jamie O’Loughlin, who first took a chance on a tall, skinny kid from the down the coast in 2004 by having me on his Under 16 VJBL Geelong team.

“He gave me the opportunity to excel, eventually leading me to join the Supercats in 2013, which he was head coach of.”