Mason to play in Ireland?

Ever dreamed of visiting Ireland and watching the Patriots play there? Well it might just happen. Per The Irish Times:

"Basketball Ireland are in discussions with US sports network ESPN to host an in-season US college’s tournament in Ireland in 2010, writes Gavin Cummisky. The coach of George Mason Patriots, Jim Larranaga, father of Ireland head coach Jay, stated an interest in bringing his university over to play in such a competition or take part in the Emerald Hoops competition.

“ESPN were very interested,” said Jay Larranaga. “If that were the case I think my Dad would really want to do one or the other; either play in the Emerald Hoops or an in-season tournament if ESPN get the backing to televise it in the US, which is what they want to do.”

The move requires a change in NCAA rules, for teams playing abroad, while Basketball Ireland would require funding from the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism"

Kind of interesting. I don't know how it would feasible with academic schedules and all to get this done, maybe it would be an early season tournament or something. You know the NCAA will bend over backwards on their rules and regulations in order to get their "product" more coverage around the globe. I mean hey Mason already has green uniforms, this thing markets itself!