SCOTT McCARTHY, a former professional player with Sligo All Stars, has been appointed chief executive of the Irish Basketball Association. He succeeds Noel Keating, who has retired after 13 years in the position.

The 37 year old American born player, a graduate of Brown University, spent four years as a player in Sligo from 1981 to 1985 before embarking on a career with the United States State Department which brought him to postings throughout Europe and Asia.

Over the past year he has worked as executive director for the Belfast Scholar Athlete Games and also coached the UUJ women's basketball team. McCarthy also played professionally in the Dutch National League.