Hemel Storm are delighted to confirm that Darien Nelson-Henry will return for his second full season at the club.
The former-Leicester Riders captain came out of retirement to join Storm midway through the 2023/24 campaign, going on to win the season-ending playoffs that year, and was then a huge part of last season’s league-winning side.
So pivotal was he that Mark Clark recognised him with his Coaches’ Player of the Season award, and with an average of 15 points and 9 rebounds it’s a decision hard to argue with.
Beyond that, though, Darien was a calming presence and a steady head in the locker room, flourishing in his role as the experienced leader of the side. At important moments when games were in the balance, it was so often him that stepped up with the words of wisdom that the squad required and his voice perhaps sounded that little bit louder, such is the respect he commands.
He earned that during his time in the BBL with the Riders, where he accumulated four trophies and was twice named in the Team of the Year. He has also spent time playing professionally in Austria and Poland.
Two trophies in a year-and-a-half is already good going and the 6’11” centre has his eyes on even more success with Storm.
“I am extremely excited to be returning for another year with Hemel! It is a great opportunity to expand on our successes from the past two seasons, with the goal of stringing multiple titles together.
I am really looking forward to working with Jake and the rest of the team to revamp our approach to the game. I can’t wait to reunite with our amazing fan base this season - I have a feeling they will love what we’re able to provide on court!”
Written by Callum Humphrey
Photo credit – TGD Visuals