Tiernan Stynes, son of Jim, set to play for Ireland at EuroBasket under-20s

The son of Melbourne great Jim Stynes is set to follow in his father’s footsteps when he represents Ireland on the international stage next month. Here’s how the opportunity came about.

Tiernan Stynes in action for Victoria.

Jim Stynes is one of the most beloved Irishman in AFL history, now his son is hoping to make his mark in his dad’s homeland.

Tiernan, 20, has been selected in Ireland’s under-20 national basketball team for the FIBA Youth Eurobasket tournament in July.

It will be the first time Tiernan has played at international level during his career after coming through the Victorian state team ranks and Nunawading Spectres program in Melbourne’s east.

Jim made the move from Ireland, where he was a star Gaelic player, when he joined Melbourne’s VFL program in 1984 before going onto win the 1991 Brownlow Medal, the first non-Australian born player to do so.

Post-career he became Melbourne’s chairman in 2008 but died in 2012 after a battle with cancer.

Now Tiernan is ready to take the next step in his own sporting career.

“It’s an honour to be able to represent the country and my family,” Stynes said.

“I’ve had an Irish passport since I was young and after getting in contact with Basketball Ireland through family members, this opportunity opened up.

“I went over for a trial and now to get the chance to play international basketball is only going to help my development.”

U23 Big V win (23, 8 and 3 ) pic.twitter.com/t3QaTxWk81

— Tiernan Stynes (@TiernanStynes) July 16, 2024

Tiernan’s international debut comes on the back off his first season in the US college basketball system with Quincy University in Illinois.

During his freshman campaign the 6’6 guard played 19 games, with four starts, and averaged 3.9 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 14.2 minutes per game.

He ended the season on a high with a career-high 13 points against UIndy.

Tiernan is also studying sports management.

“I’ve already recommitted for my second season,” Tiernan said.

“It was such a good experience even though the team had an up and down season. Living on campus and playing basketball is an absolute dream come true.

“During the school breaks, it gives you an insight into the life of a professional because all you’re doing is travelling, training and playing with the team.”

Tiernan and Ireland will begin their European Championship campaign on July 12 against Estonia.

They’ve been placed in Group BV alongside hosts Armenia, Latvia and Montenegro as well.

“I’ll head over to Dublin this week for a training camp,” Tiernan said.

“I’m staying with one of my teammates so that will help me settle in and get to know the guys.

“It’s going to be a good opportunity to be exposed to a different level of basketball and hopefully make connections which can help further down the line.”

After hearing of Tiernan’s selection for the Irish national team, Quincy University head coach Brad Hoyt was quick to praise his rising star.

“What an earned opportunity for Tiernan to represent a country that has meant so much to him and his family,” he told the school’s website.

“His work ethic and preparation was at such a high level, we are just excited to see his impact on this stage. We are not only proud of Tiernan, but truly excited for a great young man to compete at such a high level.“

Ireland finished last year’s tournament in 14th position with a 3-4 record.

Originally published as Tiernan Stynes, son of Jim, set to play for Ireland at EuroBasket under-20s