The dates for the 2009 Emerald Hoops International Series have been confirmed.

2009 will see the addition of an Emerald Hoops Women’s International Series, which will run concurrently with the men’s competition on August 7, 8, 9 and will provide the Irish public with an opportunity to watch top class basketball from both codes of the game.

The competition will be run in at least two venues in Ireland, similar to 2008 where Limerick, Belfast and Dublin all hosted games.

Tournament organisers are already in advanced discussions with a number of high calibre international and collegiate teams (Men & Women) with Ireland’s Senior Men & Women set to face some of the biggest names in world basketball.

The inaugural Emerald Hoops International Series was a massive success with Notre Dame, otherwise known as the ‘Fighting Irish’ facing the senior international teams of Ireland, Poland Development Squad and Iceland. It was the NCAA giants Notre Dame who managed to lift the trophy after a glorious 10 day trip around Ireland.

“The Fighting Irish in Ireland was just natural,” said Notre Dame Head Coach Mike Brey. “This was truly a unique experience for our players, coaching staff and families. I was greatly impressed by everybody involved with the organisation of Basketball Ireland and the Emerald Hoops program. We were truly honoured to have been selected as the first collegiate team to participate in the event.”

The tournament allows the international teams to prepare for their upcoming European qualifiers, while it gives the collegiate visitor’s much needed preparations ahead of their gruelling season.

Already this season, the reigning Emerald Hoops International Series champions Notre Dame have continued their phenomenal home record with their latest 74-67 win over Boston University marking their 41^st consecutive win at the Joyce Centre.

A provisional schedule can be viewed below 

 Emerald Hoops International Series 2009, Men

Venue: TBD

Emerald Hoops International Series 2009, Women

Venue: TBD