He may only be 16-years-old, but Belfast Star's CJ Fulton is already leaving his mark on Basketball Ireland's Super League. Shooting to fame for his stellar performance in the Schools Cup final back in January, Fulton shot an incredible 15 3-pointers as he spearheaded St. Malachy's drive to All-Ireland success.
While playing amongst his peers at school level might be one thing, the prospect of taking on adult men in the nationwide Super League is another. Yet, through a combination of injuries and Fulton's willingness to take his chance, the prodigious young talent is making the transition quite capably it would seem.
Playing under his father and former Irish international Adrian Fulton at Belfast Star, it was Garvey's Tralee Warriors that they faced up to in the weekend just gone. Although the performances of Mike David, Mark Berlic and the 25-points Sergio Vidal Baldovi contributed can't go unnoticed, Fulton was a threatening presence as Star pulled off a memorable 89-79 win.
Showcasing his tremendous speed, awareness and shooting ability, this score from the 16-year-old was something else.
Speaking after the game, Fulton's father Adrian outlined the nature of CJ's inclusion and how the young player has grasped his opportunity.
"We didn't think he'd be playing nearly as much as he is," Fulton admitted.
"It's more out of necessity - Adan Quinn is injured, Conor is basically playing with one hand, and CJ was given the opportunity and he's grasped it and it's terrific."
Currently sitting top of the Men's Super League, Belfast Star's next fixture will see them taking on Moycullen this weekend.
Meanwhile, in the Hula Hoops National Cup, a quarter-final clash with Keanes Supervalu Killorglin awaits on December 2.
Video courtesy of Basketball Ireland
