IT’S double delight for Bantry Basketball Club’s U15A boys team.

The rising hoops stars were crowned Cork league champions, winning the title for the third season in a row, following a remarkable comeback victory over Blue Demons.

After edging past Kanturk by a single point in a thrilling semi-final the previous week, Bantry faced a Blue Demons side that had contested the last three finals at the 2011 age grade.

Having already secured the cup title earlier in the season, Bantry were aiming to complete the double.

Incredibly, they also secured a huge team achievement by going 24-0 for the season; their first-ever unbeaten season.

For much of the contest, that achievement appeared unlikely. In what was a fiercely competitive and defensive game, Bantry trailed by 13 points entering the final quarter. However, the boys produced an extraordinary turnaround, driven by relentless full-court pressing and outstanding teamwork.

Charlie Downey and Conor O’Mahony repeatedly attacked the basket and were rewarded at the free-throw line, while Michael Hayden made a huge impact with crucial steals from inbounds plays and composed finishes on the fast break.

Downey and O’Mahony also knocked down vital three-pointers at key moments in the game. Captain Donnacha Cronin Murphy led superbly throughout, keeping the team composed under pressure, while Eoin McCarthy, Harry Curran, Alex Cronin, and Eoghan Dullea all made massive contributions across the four quarters.

Bantry completely dominated the final quarter, outscoring their opponents 26–7 to secure an incredible six-point victory and claim the league title for the third successive season.

It caps off a fantastic season for the squad, who remain unbeaten in Cork competition and have now won the league title at the highest grade for three consecutive years.

Coach Pat Curran praised the development and character shown by the team throughout the year.

‘It’s been an incredible year of development,’ Curran said.

‘Players have really come into their own. Our aim this year was not to win trophies at all, it was to become better as a team and to improve on individual skill level. To win all that Cork basketball has to offer at this age group was a big bonus and testament to the work the lads have put in.’

Curran also acknowledged the contribution of strength and conditioning coach Pablo Hernandez.

‘Pablo has put massive work into the lads all year, and it really showed in that final quarter against Demons.’