McEvoy's Eagles soar to historic National Cup success

Division 1 National Cup final

Winning a cup final in basketball is never easy. It demands skill, mental toughness, and the ability to rise to the occasion under immense pressure. The game can turn in an instant, and every possession counts. McEvoy’s Cavan Eagles, however, met the challenge head-on at the National Basketball Arena, delivering a commanding 86-68 victory over iSecure Swords Thunder to claim their first-ever Women’s Division One National Cup title.

Cavan Eagles, who remain unbeaten in league play this season, wasted no time asserting their dominance. They raced into a 21-13 lead in the first quarter, powered by American superstar Lanetta Williams, who put up seven of her game-high 28 points early on.

A Rahema Henderson three-pointer stretched Eagles’ lead to 26-17, but Thunder responded with a strong push, cutting the deficit to just four points (31-27) midway through the second quarter. Despite this, Eagles remained composed, and thanks to key contributions from Williams and Niamh Tolan, they took a 47-34 lead into halftime.

Swords refused to go quietly, with Americans Jasmine Walker and Makayla Miller leading their fightback. A Walker three-pointer brought Thunder within 59-51 late in the third quarter, but Eagles had all the answers. A Niamh Tolan layup helped steady the ship, and by the end of the third period, Cavan held a 64-53 lead.

The final quarter belonged to Eagles. A Niamh Tolan three-pointer in the opening minutes extended the lead to 69-55, and a clutch Ciara Tolan three-pointer in the closing stages ensured there was no way back for Thunder.

While Lanetta Williams (28 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists) and Rahmena Henderson (16 points, 10 steals) led the scoring, this victory was built on an incredible team effort, with every player making valuable contributions on both ends of the court. Casey Mulvey (7 points) was outstanding, delivering one of the game’s defining moments when she dove off the court to save a stray ball, sparking a fast break that led to a crucial Eagles basket just as Swords Thunder were battling to get back into the game.

Ciara Tolan (12 points, 7 rebounds) was a force under the boards, while Ciara Brady was immense defensively, breaking up key Thunder plays and calmly sinking two crucial free throws when the pressure was on. Laura McFarland, who has been working her way back from illness, showed signs of her best form, draining a timely three-pointer from beyond the arc to keep Eagles in control. Emma Tolan added seven points and used her fast experience to help keeps Thunder’s offense on the back foot. Meanwhile, Niamh Tolan (11 points) led by example, dictating the tempo of the game and keeping Eagles composed throughout.

With scoring threats everywhere, Eagles had too many weapons for Thunder to handle, proving that this cup-winning squad is far more than just a few standout players—it’s a complete team with the talent and determination to deliver when it matters most.

A huge contingent of basketball enthusiasts, both young and old, made the trek to the National Basketball Arena to support the Eagles. For many, it was their first time experiencing a National Cup final, and they were treated to an unforgettable game filled with highs and lows, intense pressure, and an electric cup final atmosphere. The large number of young players in attendance will surely be inspired by the experience, seeing firsthand what is possible with dedication and teamwork. No doubt the scenes of celebration at the final buzzer will live long in the memory of those who made the journey.

Head Coach John Stephens and Assistant Coach Ben Kelly Flynn will be particularly pleased with how Eagles performed on both ends of the court. Their offensive efficiency and defensive intensity proved too much for Swords Thunder, with key contributions from every player on the roster. Speaking after the game, Coach John Stephens expressed his pride in the team: “Delighted with the win, the girls have been working hard and this is much deserved. They executed brilliantly against a tough Swords team. The atmosphere in the arena was super and a huge thanks to all who travelled and supported the team.”

Having fallen just short in previous seasons, this victory was particularly meaningful for Eagles Captain Niamh Tolan who reflected on the achievement “We’re delighted. We’ve been knocking on the door for a few seasons now. In our first season, we lost to Portlaoise on a buzzer-beater, and last year, we lost to a very dominant Dublin Lions team. This year, we were determined to break the ‘cup curse,’ and we’re just so happy to get over the line.”

Tolan also spoke about the pride of winning alongside her sisters, Ciara and Emma, adding “It’s very special. This is the first time the three of us have won something together. In 20 years’ time, when we’re sitting down having dinner, we’ll remember this fondly.”

With the National Cup secured, McEvoy’s Cavan Eagles now turn their attention back to the Women’s Division One, where they hold a perfect 9-0 record. However, with silverware in hand, they now have a target on their backs, as every team will be eager to end their unbeaten run.

Next up, Eagles host Limerick Huskies at the Virginia Show Centre next Saturday at 4 PM. The two sides met in Round 2 of the league, where the Eagles had to dig deep to secure a 67-53 comeback win.

That game saw Limerick take an early 22-14 lead, with former Super League star Delia Moore dominating early on. Eagles, however, responded with a crucial 9-0 run in the third quarter swinging the momentum in their favor. They eventually outscored the Huskies 15-2 in the third period, with Lanetta Williams (20 points, 13 rebounds) and Rahmena Henderson (18 points, 10 steals) leading the charge.

Eagles will be eager to repeat that second-half dominance, but Huskies, led by Scout Frame (16 points, 11 rebounds), will be looking to avenge that defeat.

With momentum on their side and confidence at an all-time high, McEvoy’s Cavan Eagles will aim to extend their unbeaten streak and continue their remarkable season. All support is welcome for what promises to be another thrilling encounter.

Quarter Scores:

Q1: 13-21, Q2: 21-26 Q3: 19-17, Q4: 15-22

Game Scores:

Q1: 12-21, Q2: 34-47, Q3: 53-64, Q4: 68-86

iSecure Swords Thunder:

Megan Connolly (0), Zara Troy (DNP), Sixta Herzberger (DNP), Kate Kelly (0), Aoife O’Connell (0) Makayla Miller (20), Jasmine Walker (17), Megan Howe (2), Laura Fortune (8), Peggy Black (19), Tia Kelly Stevens (2), Zoe Egan (0).

McEvoy's Cavan Eagles:

Rahmena Henderson (16), Niamh Tolan (11), Emma Tolan (7) Caitlin Carroll (0), Ciara Brady (2), Ciara Tolan (12), Casey Mulvey (7), Jane Larkin (DNP), Laura McFarland (3), Lanetta Williams (28).