Lakers win maiden BIDL clash
Cavan Lakers 68
Boyne Warriors 58
It was a historic evening for Cavan Lakers Basketball Club on Sunday as the Senior Men marked their first-ever appearance in the Basketball Ireland Development League (BIDL) with an impressive 68–58 victory over Boyne Warriors from Drogheda.
A packed St Patrick’s College sports hall provided a fantastic atmosphere for this milestone occasion, and the home side gave supporters plenty to cheer with a determined team performance.
The Lakers made a flying start, taking control of the opening quarter and building a commanding 26–11 lead.
Riccardo Vennettilli and Seán Moran led the scoring, contributing 10 points each in an excellent opening period. The second quarter was a much tighter affair, with Boyne responding strongly through Colm Hackett, who scored 10 points, as Cavan went into half-time 46–32 ahead.
The visitors came out strongly after the break, outscoring the Lakers 22–12 in the third, with John Prendergast contributing nine points. However, despite the Warriors narrowing the gap, Cavan showed great composure and determination to maintain their advantage.
The final quarter saw the Lakers produce an excellent defensive display, controlling the tempo and limiting Boyne to just four points. Big man Vaidas Martisius and Gary Molloy played important roles during this period, making key defensive contributions to help secure the victory.
One of the standout features of Cavan’s performance was their impressive shooting from beyond the arc, with the team converting 14 three-pointers throughout. Combined with their strong defensive intensity and teamwork, it proved crucial in overcoming a physical Boyne Warriors side.
The Lakers led from start to finish, securing a memorable 68–58 victory and the perfect beginning to this exciting new chapter for the club.
Having already enjoyed a strong start to their domestic season, this opening BIDL victory is another encouraging step forward for the Senior Men as they embrace the challenge of competing at national level.
Next up: Cavan Lakers welcome Atlantic Eagles from Sligo to St Patrick’s College on Sunday, 15 November 2026, where they will be hoping to build on their opening success. A fantastic occasion for Cavan Lakers Basketball Club and a proud moment for everyone involved as the Senior Men begin their BIDL journey on a winning note.