Elation for coach Danny O'Mahony as he leads UCC Demons to Super League glory

Elation for UCC Demons, after their thrilling 94-92 win over Killester in the Men’s Super League final on Sunday as coach Danny O’Mahony mingled with players, family and friends.

Demons had been at basketball headquarters back in February but lost out to the same opposition in the cup final but this time his team bounced back to record a famous win.

“This is the greatest moment of my basketball career to lead the club to a Super League title that I have been with since I was six-years-old,” O’Mahony said.

Demons are now the most successful club at this level as this was their ninth league title and with eight cups under their belt, they have now passed their Cork rivals Neptune who accumulated 11 league titles and five cup wins.

In the build-up, Demons, who also won the regular season, had to replay their quarter-final win over Energywise Ireland Neptune before demolishing them in the rematch. 

The semi-final with Tralee Warriors was electric as they trailed by 11 points with three minutes remaining in the third quarter only to grind their way to a famous two-point success.

The spirit in this Demons squad is incredible and coach O’Mahony believes they were rewarded for their dedication since last August.

“The lads have a great attitude, and I am a firm believer this game is all about players and how they approach games.

“For me, this team have the right attitude and that’s why we are standing here today as champions as they worked their socks off over the last two years."

The loyalty and backing of Demons fans are well known up and down this country and O’Mahony believes they have been a sixth man all season.

“We won a lot of close games this season and the fans have always lifted the players and many thanks to them for their loyalty over many years to this club.” 

O’Mahony paid tribute to his wife Jodie and mother and father Pat and Norma for helping in the role over the past three years.

“My wife and children are very special to me and my parents have always supported me through thick and thin and I am very grateful for their loyalty.” 

For the MVP Patrick Robinson, it was a day to savour, finishing with a 35-point tally as he saluted his teammates for their battling performance. Robinson arrived in Ireland in December and made a huge difference to Demons with his incredible scoring skills.

I am over the moon to have helped Demons win this title as they are the most genuine bunch of guys, I have ever had the honour to play with.

“The love and hospitality that this club gave me has been second to none and I will never forget them to my dying day,” Robinson said.

EMOTIONAL

The second Demons American Elijah Tillman also played his part in Demons' super season and is loved by the faithful. 

He was emotional after the game.

“I wanted to win so much after losing the cup final in a game that I underachieved in but look that’s sport and I was ready for battle today.

“My family in New York were watching and as I depart on Tuesday may I convey my thanks to a wonderful team, club and most of all those special fans."