U18 Women's National Cup 2023-24 Semi-final:

Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell vs. Tralee Magic

This morning Tralee Magic U18 Girls team will travel to Corks Parochial Hall, one of Irelands most iconic basketball venues,  to meet Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell in the home court.  The stage is set for an intense battle in the U18 Women's National Cup 2023-24 semi-finals.

Both teams come into this match with impressive records, having won incredibly tough previous games in the competition. Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell emerged victorious against Kilkenny Stars with a convincing 77-53 scoreline, while Tralee Magic overcame Flomax Liffey Celtics in a close encounter, winning 60-57.

Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell has been dominant in the group stage, scoring an average of 77 points per game while conceding only 53 points. Their offense has been firing on all cylinders, with seventeen 2-point shots and eleven 3-point shots made per game. However their free throw scoring only hits 47.6%  and could be an area of improvement. The standout performers for Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell have  been Mia Lynch,, who scores in their last cup game included five 3 pointers, and Abbie Lyons,  who have been consistent in scoring and making significant contributions to their team's success.

On the other hand, Tralee Magic has also been in fine form, scoring an average of 60 points per game and conceding 57 points. Their strength lies in their ability to move the ball quickly and convert 2-point shots, with an impressive 21 shots made per game. However their 3-point shooting could be a concern, having made only 3 shots per game. The free throw percentage of 75% showcases their efficiency from the  line. Holly O'Brien who scored an impressive 23 points in their last cup game,  and Capped Irish International Lucy O’Connor have been the key players for Tralee Magic, displaying their scoring prowess and making crucial contributions to their team's victories.

In this highly anticipated matchup, Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell's offensive firepower will be a significant advantage, but Tralee Magic's strong defense and efficient 2-point shooting cannot be underestimated. The key to victory for Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunell will be their ability to maintain their scoring momentum, but they are up against Tralee Magic’s proven intensive defense  which  should limit  Gurranabraher Credit Union Brunells scoring opportunities.

The unquantifiable influence of an enthusiastic home crowd could be the difference in this game. With three Tralee team’s competing in 3 different national cups on the same weekend in Cork, we would encourage the notoriously  loyal Kerry basketball community will travel Cork to drown out the notoriously vocal Cork support.

Get ready for an exhilarating contest as these two talented teams battle it out for a spot in the U18 Women's National Cup final.