Bantry Basketball Club says Emily Ratajkowski's work as a human rights activist makes her an inspirational role model for children in the community.
It comes after the supermodel and actress agreed to sponsor the Cork clubs under 15s.
Emily's parents own a house in Bantry.
So they asked her earlier this week if she would be interested in helping the team.
Bantry Basketball Coach Pat Curran says Emily sets a very good example for young people:
"She's used her platform an awful lot to advocate and speak up for people who are marginalised."
"So immigrants, she's very vocal on women's rights, black lives matter, LGBTQ+ issues."
"She sets a really good example on an equal and accepting society."
"We're very proud to have her associated with the club."
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It Took Less Than 5 Mins For Her To Decide
Pat says it took less than five minutes for Emily to agree to sponsor the team.
The Cork club says they had to think outside the box for sponsorship this year as so many local businesses were impacted by covid-19.
Pat says he met Emily's parents a few nights ago and asked if she would be interested in becoming a club sponsor:
"John and his with Kathy have a house in Bantry and I'd be friendly with them."
"I was chatting to John the other night, about the new season because he's a big basketball fan."
"So I just said to him, maybe Emily would like to sponsor one of our teams."
"He texted her, and he was back to me within five minutes saying she'd love to do it."
