In a recent EuroBasket 2025 qualifier in Riga, the Irish women’s basketball team refused to shake hands with the Israel team and opted for alternative pre-match arrangements. Israel player Dor Saar accused the Ireland team of being “quite anti-Semitic,” a claim denied by Basketball Ireland as “inflammatory and wholly inaccurate.”
The Ireland players also positioned themselves for their anthem beside the team’s bench rather than the center of the court. Despite concerns and calls for a boycott over the Israel-Gaza war, the match proceeded, resulting in a victory for Israel with a score of 87-57.
Saar’s comments have been reported to Fiba Europe by Basketball Ireland. The game was relocated to Riga due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Basketball Ireland had earlier stated that a boycott of fixtures with Israel could lead to heavy fines and expulsion from the competition, potentially impacting the women’s international game for the next decade.
Also Read | Indian Activist Umar Khalid Languishes in Jail: A Closer Look at Bail Denials and Legal Battles
The statement from Basketball Ireland emphasized its support for the players’ decision not to partake in traditional pre-match arrangements due to the accusations made by Israeli players and coaching staff. The team’s actions were a response to what they deemed as inflammatory and inaccurate accusations of anti-Semitism.
The situation unfolded against the backdrop of tensions related to the Israel-Gaza war, with Irish Sport for Palestine calling for a boycott. Basketball Ireland, in its statement, clarified its stance and affirmed its backing for the players’ decision in light of the circumstances.
