The Irish women’s basketball team took a stand during their EuroBasket 2025 qualifier match in Riga on Thursday, opting not to participate in the customary handshake with the Israeli team. This decision came in response to allegations of anti-Semitism made by an Israeli player, Dor Saar, in an interview published by the Israeli Basketball Association earlier in the week.
Saar’s remarks, claiming that the Irish team harbored anti-Semitic sentiments, sparked controversy ahead of the match. She stated, “It’s known that they are quite anti-Semitic, and it’s no secret; maybe that’s why a strong game is expected.” Basketball Ireland swiftly denounced Saar’s comments, labeling them as “inflammatory and wholly inaccurate,” and reported the matter to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA).
In a bold move, Basketball Ireland announced that its players would refrain from participating in traditional pre-match rituals with the Israeli team. This included forgoing the exchange of gifts and formal handshakes, opting instead to line up for the Irish national anthem by their bench rather than center court.
In an official statement released on Thursday afternoon, Basketball Ireland expressed unwavering support for its players’ decision, citing the need to address and confront baseless accusations of discrimination. The association conveyed its message directly to FIBA Europe, underscoring the impact of the recent inflammatory comments on their team’s willingness to engage in customary sportsmanship gestures.
Despite the controversy surrounding the match, Israel emerged victorious with a final score of 87-57. However, the Irish team’s principled stance highlighted the broader issue of combating unfounded accusations of prejudice within the realm of international sports.
What do you think? Did the Irish team overreact or are their actions justified?