Hemel Storm are pleased to announce the signing of New Zealand international point-guard Alex McNaught.
The 24-year-old has built up valuable experience in the New Zealand and Australian NBL in recent years, and heads for Hemel off the back of his involvement in the recent FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 Asian Qualifiers.
He becomes Head Coach Tom Baker’s 12th recruit of an action-packed summer, which should stand Storm in good stead for the upcoming British Basketball Championship campaign, commencing with the BCB Trophy this Sunday.
“I’m super excited to be venturing across the world to play here in Hemel,” our latest signing said.
“Having been friends with Brayden, I’ve heard so much about how much of an awesome club and amazing fan base Storm has.
“This has me so excited to make my mark and contribute to the winning ways here in Hemel.
“I can't wait to meet and get to know all the people involved in making this such a great club!”
McNaught started his career in his home country’s national competition with the Nelson Giants in 2020, and averaged 7.8 points, 4.5 rebounds and 4.8 assists in the most recent campaign with the same side.
He’s also spent four years with Australian NBL outfit New Zealand Breakers, crucial experience in his development.
Having competed for his international team at the 2019 FIBA Under-17 Oceania Championships, he made his full ‘Tall Black’ debut in the 2023 World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
Most recently, he appeared in both games as New Zealand defeated Iran and Syria to further their World Cup qualification hopes.
Baker added: “We’re really excited to have Alex joining us this season.
“He’s a high-IQ guard who can organise the game, create for others and make really good decisions in ball-screen situations, while also being a scoring threat himself.
“Representing New Zealand at international level speaks to the quality and experience he brings.
“I think Alex will elevate the group, not just through what he can do individually, but through the way he can help us play with pace, make good decisions and continue to create advantages within the style we’re building.
“He adds another experienced voice and a real level of composure to the group. We’re delighted to have him at Storm and really looking forward to seeing the impact he can have with us this season.”
It’s not long until you can catch our new man in action, with our BCB Trophy campaign beginning with back-to-back away games against Loughborough Riders and Birmingham Rockets on Sunday 6 and Sunday 13 September respectively.
Tickets for our first home fixture against Oaklands Wolves on Sunday 20 October are available on the Fanbase app now.
Written by Callum Humphrey