With the foot-and-mouth problem killing off the climax to last year's league, and some significant shifting of players since then, this weekend's opening games of the new basketball season have attracted an increased level of anticipation.

As holders of the men's league and cup double, Killester will start out as the team to topple but Waterford, Neptune and Tralee look stronger than ever.

A further three-year sponsorship with ESB has also ensured a number of new initiatives, including expanded television coverage on TG4 and TV3 and a new interactive website at www.iba.ie.

Most of the talk at yesterday's launch in Dublin's Temple Bar Square, however, was about predicting events on the court.

Killester have lost both coach Mark Ingle and American standout John Leahy to the Manchester Giants, and Adrian Leahy has gone to Star of the Sea. Ken Black has taken over as coach while key performer Eric Jackson is back for a second season.

Waterford have looked impressive in the pre-season tournaments and major signing James Singleton has already averaged over 30 points per game.

Neptune also look to have made a number of inspired signings, including New Zealand international David Langrell and schoolboy standout Ger Noonan.

The arrival of Canada's Barnaby Craddock and America's Rob Schnurer looks set to further enhance Tralee's strong line-up.

Notre Dame continue to focus on youth development and player-coach Anthony Jenkins has brought up four players from the under-19 panel.

On the women's side, the Wildcats will set out to defend both titles. Glanmire have stepped into the women's league to make it six competing teams.

Tolka Rovers, with six new signings, appear - on paper at least - like the team to beat.