Irish basketball star makes history despite heartbreaking loss in Euro final
Claire Melia became the first Irish woman to win a European club medal as her team Baxi Ferrol were beaten in the final of the FIBA Women’s Euro Cup. The Spanish side lost out 84-70 on the night and 162-145 on aggregate to Villeneuve d'Ascq LM of France in Lille as Melia had to make do with a silver medal at the end of her first season in Spain. Villeneuve raced into an early lead on Tuesday evening, and despite the best efforts of Claire and her teammates, they were unable to overturn the deficit and had to make do with finishing runners-up.
Claire Melia of Baxi Ferrol poses for a picture with friends and family after the game
(Image: Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Dave Winter)
Despite not clinching the title, 25-year-old Melia has had an excellent first season in Galicia and her performances bode well for her future for both club and country. Speaking after the game, Melia said: "We thought we'd be closer to them, but they played very well today. They couldn’t miss and they played well as a team on defence all around the court. Look, we never thought we’d be here and now we have a silver medal, so it’s not too bad. On the impact her run to the final has had, Melia said: “Maybe someone else will be over here or someday, everyone has their own journey. You never know what can happen, but always remember there’s more to life than basketball." Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts.
