CJ Fulton Returns to the Irish National Basketball Team
CJ Fulton is gearing up for his long-anticipated return to the Irish national basketball team after a two-year hiatus, with the added expectations that come from his recent signing with the Minnesota Timberwolves of the NBA. Set to take the court this Friday against Azerbaijan in the FIBA EuroBasket 2029 pre-qualifiers, Fulton recognizes that this match holds significant importance for his team and himself.
Reflections on His Journey
In an interview with BBC Sport NI’s Thomas Kane, the 23-year-old Belfast native reflected on the nearly three years since donning the green jersey.
“It’s tough to believe it’s been that long, but I’m really looking forward to it,”
he expressed. With Ireland having suffered losses to both Luxembourg and North Macedonia in prior rounds, it is vital that Fulton and his teammates secure a win to maintain hopes of qualifying for the European Championships.
Importance of Upcoming Matches
“These are critical, must-win games if we intend to advance in the EuroBasket qualifiers,”
Fulton stated, filled with enthusiasm for his return. He’s optimistic about his ability to make a positive impact, citing his familiarity with the European style of basketball, which he grew up playing.
“Even though I’ve been away from it for a while, I’m eager to get back into that rhythm and contribute to the team’s success. We have a lot of talented players on our roster,”
he added.
Recent Developments and Future Aspirations
Fulton’s journey over the past year has been notable, especially after his stint with the Timberwolves, where he participated in summer league games before being assigned to their G-League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves. Despite not being able to join Ireland for the initial qualifiers due to his college commitments, he emphasizes his desire to give back to his national team. He explained,
“Three years ago, I was still on my way up, but now I feel more established and prepared to handle the added pressure that comes from recent developments.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
His ambitions extend beyond personal success, hoping to inspire younger players and promote basketball in Ireland. After the double-header against Azerbaijan, Fulton plans to return to Iowa, where the Wolves are pushing for a playoff spot in the G-League after a series of recent losses, currently sitting eighth in their conference.
Challenges and Gratitude
“The G-League experience has posed its own challenges, especially with the frequent calls of players ascending to the NBA. Adapting to these shifts has been crucial,”
noted Fulton. However, he remains grateful for the opportunity to compete at a high level, acknowledging the immense talent present in the league and how it prepares him for future challenges in his professional career.
