Mark Keenan Steps Down As Head Coach Of Ireland's Men's Basketball Team

He's been in charge for 6 years

Mark Keenan is stepping down from his role as head coach of the Ireland men’s basketball team after six years at the helm.

The decision follows a recent meeting with Basketball Ireland CEO John Feehan and Elite Performance Committee (EPC) Chairperson Deirdre Brennan, where all parties agreed that now is the right time for change.

Reflecting on his tenure, Keenan said:
"It has been a true honour to lead the national team. I've thoroughly enjoyed the journey, but the time has come to pass the torch to the next head coach who can build on what we’ve achieved together."

Appointed in 2019, Keenan guided Ireland to notable success, most memorably winning the 2021 FIBA European Championship for Small Countries.

That triumph helped launch Ireland into the FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Pre-Qualifiers, where the team secured impressive wins both home and away against Cyprus and Luxembourg.

More recently, Keenan led the squad into the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Pre-Qualifiers—the nation’s first appearance at this level—claiming three victories, including a home win over Kosovo.

Speaking further on his achievements, Keenan said:
"There have been so many memorable moments—the 2021 championship win in Dublin, returning to FIBA EuroBasket Pre-Qualifiers, and the incredible home crowds during last November’s World Cup Pre-Qualifiers. We pushed boundaries and proved we could compete."

EPC Chairperson Deirdre Brennan praised Keenan’s contributions:
"Mark leaves behind a lasting legacy. From championship titles to historic World Cup qualifiers, he helped elevate Irish basketball to new heights. His dedication over the years—also serving as assistant coach and U20 head coach—has made a profound impact."

Basketball Ireland CEO John Feehan echoed those sentiments, highlighting Keenan’s long-standing service to the sport:
"As both a player and coach, Mark has achieved so much. His leadership was vital as Ireland re-entered top-tier European competitions, and his efforts will be remembered fondly."

Team captain Seán Flood also paid tribute:
"Mark has been a key figure in my career—from underage basketball to the senior team. He believed in us and helped create unforgettable moments, including giving me the honour of captaining my country. He and the coaching staff will be missed."

Keenan extended his gratitude to everyone involved:
"To the players, staff, families, supporters, sponsors, and Basketball Ireland—thank you. The support we received was incredible, and the memories we’ve made together will last a lifetime. I’m proud of how far we’ve come, and confident that this team will continue to succeed."

He also offered special thanks to his coaching staff—Adrian Fulton, Puff Summers, Mike Hickey, Andrew Lane, Igor Markiewicz, and Paul Daly—who stood by him throughout the journey.

The process of appointing a new head coach will be announced by the EPC in due course.