Irish star CJ Fulton makes history after making NBA debut

July 17, 2025

CJ Fulton made Irish NBA history in Las Vegas on Wednesday after making his debut for the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The 22-year-old became the first Irish-developed player to feature for an NBA franchise when he came off the bench against the Phoenix Suns.

Fulton played for four minutes in their 89-85 Summer League victory. The Summer League is a pre-season competition for NBA franchises to showcase new and upcoming players.

The Belfast man was cheered on by his friends and family, who had made the trip and made sure their presence was felt with numerous Irish flags in the stands.

‘A cool moment for me’ says CJ Fulton

Speaking to Timberwolves’ YouTube channel, he said: “It was definitely a cool moment for me, checking into the game. Obviously proud to get here, proud of the achievement.

“Wish I could have contributed a little bit more, but it was definitely a cool moment and cool experience being out there.

“My family and a few friends made the journey over. It’s really special. They’ve supported me the whole way and everyone is buzzing back home as well so it’s been great.

“Hopefully I can inspire a few players down the line, future players, just to keep working, and show them that reaching this stage is possible.”

CJ Fulton’s achievements ensured he became the third Irish-born player to play NBA basketball after Pat Burke and Susan Moran.

Burke played 62 games for the Orlando Magic from 2002, while Moran is the only Irish player to have played in the WNBA. She was selected by the New York Liberty in 2001.

‘He’s been awesome’ says NBA coach

Those were the words from Minnesota coach Kevin Hanson, who shared his sympathy for not giving Fulton proper preparation. He said: “Yeah, he was awesome in camp.

“I feel bad because, basically, he did not play the first three games, and it’s pretty hard to have any rhythm or feel for the team at that point.

“We’ve had one practice since we’ve been here, so I felt bad throwing him in there in that kind of circumstance, but it was good to put him in. He earned it, he was awesome in camp.”

Fulton’s basketball quality runs in the family. His grandad coached the Irish men’s senior team, and his father was also an Ireland international.

“Coach kind of talked about it at breakfast, just to say ‘stay ready and you might get your opportunity today’ so that’s all I’ve been doing and grateful for the opportunity.”

The Minnesota Timberwolves are currently the fourth favourites at 11/2 to win the Summer League with Irish bookmakers.