Feb. 6, 2008

Former Irish captain and Bowling Green State University graduate Jay Larranaga has been appointed the new Head Coach of the Ireland Men's Senior National Basketball Team. Son of George Mason University coach Jim Larranaga, the 33-year-old Irish-American has enjoyed a hugely successful professional playing career in Italy, Greece, France and Spain and will take charge of Ireland ahead of the forthcoming European Championships.

Jay's first challenge will be to lead Ireland against The Fighting Irish of Notre Dame in the inaugural Emerald Hoops international series. The Fighting Irish will be touring Ireland from August 13-August 25 and competing against top International teams including Ireland and Poland.

The Emerald Hoops program will help prepare the Senior Men's Team for the European Championships and create further excitement during an important time for Irish Basketball. Larranaga has made over 40 appearances for Ireland as a player and was named the 2002 Irish international Men's player of the year. Jay's father Jim was named the 2006 Clair Bee College Basketball Coach of the Year and boasts the most victories in school and CAA conference history.

"My wife and I are very proud of Jay," said Jim. "Being chosen to be Head Coach of the Irish National team is quite an honor. Jay was born to be a coach. He was raised in an Irish family that loves the wonderful history and tradition of a remarkable country. His love for Ireland and Basketball will show in how he leads the Irish Basketball team. Jay will create great excitement for all that follow basketball in Ireland."

Responding to his appointment, Jay Larranaga said, "I am extremely excited and honored to be chosen Head Coach of the Irish National Basketball Team. As an Irish-American and former Captain of the National Team, I have witnessed the growth of basketball in Ireland first-hand and I am dedicated to helping to continue this growth. "With the support of Irish Basketball fans both in Ireland and in the United States, I am confident that we can build a first class National Team Program that will be able to compete with the best teams in the world. I am hopeful that by establishing a strong Senior Men's Team we will encourage even more Irish youths to play the game of basketball and dream of one day representing Ireland on the International Stage."

Basketball Ireland CEO, Debbie Massey, has described this as a hugely important development for basketball in Ireland and is looking forward to the Emerald Hoops program where's Jay's Ireland will prepare for their European series of matches.

"This is a major appointment for Irish basketball," said Massey. "Jay Larranaga comes to us with extensive playing experience at a high level. He takes over the national team at a particular positive time for basketball in Ireland and I look forward to an exciting summer when Jay will be in charge against quality opposition like Notre Dame."