Gandy Malou-Mamel has become the first ever Irish player to be recruited by the UConn women's basketball programme.
The Limerick native, who currently plays with the Gill St. Bernard’s School in New Jersey, announced on Twitter that she has verbally committed to the University of Connecticut.
"I am very happy to announce my verbal commitment to the University of Connecticut," the 6' 5" class of 2025 forward said.
"I look forward to continuing my academic career and playing basketball in Storrs. Thank you to Coach Auriemma and the staff of UCONN for seeing my potential and presenting me with this opportunity.
19 March 2022; Gandy Malou-Mamel of Limerick Celtics in action against Niamh O'Leary of Liffey Celtics, behind, during the InsureMyHouse.ie U18 Women's National Cup Final match between Liffey Celtics and Limerick Celtics at Neptune Stadium in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
"Ten months ago, the idea of playing basketball at UCONN felt unimaginable. I took the risk of leaving behind my life in Ireland last August, knowing that the opportunities presented would change my family's life forever.
"I am beyond grateful to the entire Quinn family for sharing their home and lives with me, believing in me and bringing a life changing opportunity to me and my family. Massive thanks to the welcoming community of New Jersey Girls Basketball.
"With the unconditional love and faith in me from my Mom, Dad, younger brothers and sister, I am excited to compete alongside my future teammates at UCONN."
19 March 2022; Gandy Malou of Limerick Celtics in action against Liffey Celtics players, from left, Niamh Fallon, Niamh O'Leary and Ana Postarnakova during the InsureMyHouse.ie U18 Women's National Cup Final match between Liffey Celtics and Limerick Celtics at Neptune Stadium in Cork. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Last year, she won an U18 Women's National Cup with Limerick Celtics as they defeated Liffey Celtics 66-57 in the final.
UConn - the most successful women's college basketball team ever - dominated the sport for much of the 2000s, winning 10 of their 11 national titles. Though, they have not won a championship since 2016.
Go far, get far.#Committed pic.twitter.com/bpC2ByNcvM
— Gandy Malou-Mamel (@GandyMamel8) July 17, 2023
