Scannell earns shot at Irish return

GEELONG United guard and Irish native Jessica Scannell is back in the mix to represent her country on the international stage, named in the preliminary squad for next month’s EuroBasket 2025 qualifier against France.

She was picked in Ireland’s 18-woman extended squad on October 25 for her country’s EuroBasket qualifier against the French, which will take place on November 12 at the National Basketball Arena.

Scannell, a cornerstone piece of Supercats coach Matt Paton’s secondary unit since 2022, was announced by Ireland head coach James Weldon as among the list of called-upon players.

“The summer programmes has served us well to prepare for this challenge,” Weldon said.

“Having Jessica back from Australia with her experience, versatility and overall qualities is also a boost to the team.

“We look forward to a special atmosphere in Tallaght as always for these games and putting on a performance against France which is ranked seventh in the FIBA World Rankings, for all our supporters.”

The announcement marks 14 years since Scannell was named to her country’s preliminary roster and the first time the Cork product has played under Weldon since 2007 at the Under 18 level.

Scannell won the Geelong United Players’ Player Award following the 2023 NBL1 South campaign, averaging 6.1 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists for the Supercats on the way to the side’s preliminary final clash against Waverley.

Scannell shot 31 three-pointers for the season from 23 appearances; an equal team-high.