Sam Newman will officially return for his fifth season at Hemel Storm, after finishing last year’s campaign in style!
The British guard first signed for the club in 2019, making the move from Essex Leopards. After a year away at the Rebels, Newman rejoined and has been present ever-since, picking up five trophies including last year’s Playoff title.
Newman has taken up a greater sense of responsibility in recent history following the wholesale changes at the club last summer. One of few remaining faces from an unprecedented season of success, he was vital in bringing together the new squad and became a real leader.
Talking about last season, he admitted “We spent the year chasing after a slow start” but acknowledged “it was nice to put all the pieces together in the end and keep the trend of Storm on the top spot going.”
Individually, he continued to impress following his solid work the year before, which was somewhat outshone by others in the team. However, in being crowned both Fans’ Offensive Player and Fans’ MVP for 2023/24 - alongside also achieving MVP acclamation in the Playoff Final with a statline featuring 18 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds and 5 steals - Newman was finally accredited with the recognition he deserves and will look to continue his good work in the upcoming season.
Speaking of his return, Newman said “I’m happy to be back; I’ve said it a few times over the years but there’s nowhere better to be than Hemel.”
Looking forward to the new season, he feels the squad are in good shape to compete straight away, stating “the off season we’re having should allow us to be at the standard needed from day 1 and really allow us to hit the ground running!”.
With Newman making up the first member of Coach Clark’s roster for 2024/25, be sure to keep posted to our socials and website for more news throughout the week…
Written by Callum Humphrey