Basketball Ireland and Intersport Elverys have formally launched a new official retail partnership.

Irish replica kit and official Molten balls are now available to purchase online and in-store, in selected outlets nationwide.

“We are now stocking the official Molten ball used for all levels and a range of Basketball Ireland-branded balls in the coming months,” said Head Buyer Philip Staunton.

“For the first time we will be stocking the official Kappa national team kit in selected stores and they will also be available online.”

The partnership has been a success since it began as a trial in October, with the on-court uniform and off-court gear for adults and children proving to be popular.

“Having the official Molten balls and the Ireland kit from Kappa available to purchase is the latest step in our partnership,” added Bruce Wood, Basketball Ireland Head of Commercial and Brand.

“Demand has been huge from the basketball and wider sporting audience with the products flying off the shelves and we’re excited to be bringing in official Basketball Ireland-branded balls soon too.”

“There are huge numbers playing the sport around the country, with a 50/50% gender split when it comes to participation and engagement in basketball,” added Anne-Marie Hanly, Intersport Elverys Senior Marketing Manager.

“We are immersed in performance and authenticity in sport, so this partnership is an ideal fit for us.”

“We will work with Basketball Ireland throughout the year to help grow the Basketball Ireland brand and to deliver an even better experience to the growing community of both players and fans.”

“Our partnership with Intersport Elverys has been a great success and is another example of the massive growth in the visibility of our sport,” said Basketball Ireland CEO John Feehan.

“Our playing population has increased 48 percent in the last five years and the popularity of the sport is showcased by the fact that our recent internationals have been sold out, along with huge numbers attending this month’s InsureMyHouse.ie National Cup semi-finals and finals.”

“Basketball in Ireland is on the rise and it’s wonderful to have Ireland’s leading sports retailer, Intersport Elverys, on board as part of this journey.”

Intersport Elverys will also stock scorebooks for clubs, which will be available online and also in some stores.