Mayo basketballers Merry Monk Ballina take on Ballincollig in National Cup

Mayo basketballers Team Merry Monk Ballina have a big opportunity on their hands.

The Moysiders face Ballincollig from Cork in a NICC Cup second-round tie. The game will tip-off at 6pm on Saturday evening (November 15) in the Ballina Sports Center.

In the first round, Ballina beat Dublin Raiders in a tightly contested match 72-69. Derek Cunningham's side battled back from a seven point deficit at half-time to reach the second round of the competition three weeks ago.

It'll be a stern challenge against Ballincollig, who play in Ireland's top division, the Super League. That's two levels above Ballina, who are in the BIDL (Basketball Ireland Development League).

Team Merry Monk will try rely on their prolific scorers, like young gun Theo Daly, who scores 19.7 points per game in BIDL matches. Also, experienced veteran Ronan O'Malley, who nets 18.5 PPG will have to be on the mark. 

Strong support acts should be expected from Mark Cunningham and Brian Donoghue. 

In their BIDL season, Ballina have a 2-1 record after three games. A 79-73 away win over Atlantic Eagles was followed by a 70-75 home defeat at the hands of Clare Cascaders. Ballina got back on winning track with Mayo derby glory over Mayo Meteors in a 69-63 home win.

A win for Ballina against Ballincollig on Saturday and they advance to the quarter-final of the NICC Cup.

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