CJ Fulton, the promising basketball talent from Belfast, is set to take the court with the Minnesota Timberwolves in the upcoming NBA Summer League. This pre-season tournament, held annually in Las Vegas, serves as a crucial platform for rookies and young players to demonstrate their abilities before the regular season commences in October.

Fulton, who recently completed his college career with the Charleston Cougars, has already participated in workouts with both the Timberwolves and the Denver Nuggets. Despite not being selected in the NBA Draft, Fulton's inclusion in the Timberwolves' Summer League roster is a significant opportunity for the 22-year-old guard to prove his worth on a larger stage.

A Legacy to Uphold

Fulton aims to become the third Irish-born player to compete at the highest level of basketball in the United States, following in the footsteps of Pat Burke and Susan Moran. Burke had a notable career with the Orlando Magic and Phoenix Suns between 2002 and 2007, while Moran was part of the New York Liberty during the 2002 WNBA season.

Timberwolves' Recent Success

The Minnesota Timberwolves have been a formidable force in the NBA's Western Conference, reaching the finals in the past two seasons. Although they faced defeats against the Dallas Mavericks and Oklahoma City Thunder, the team continues to build a strong roster. The inclusion of Anthony Edwards, the number one draft pick in 2020 and a three-time All-Star, highlights the Timberwolves' commitment to nurturing young talent.

Summer League Schedule

Fulton's journey with the Timberwolves will begin on July 10, when they face the New Orleans Pelicans in their first Summer League fixture. This game will be a crucial test for Fulton as he seeks to make an impression and secure a spot in the team's regular season lineup.

With his impressive college stats—averaging 7.8 points and 6.5 assists per game in his senior year—Fulton has the potential to become a key player for the Timberwolves. His participation in the Summer League is not just a personal milestone but also a significant moment for Irish basketball, as he strives to follow the legacy of his predecessors and carve out his own path in the NBA.