Nelson-Henry’s storied career to end with Storm this Saturday
Darien Nelson-Henry will call time on a storied playing career this Saturday, with the 2025/26 season being his last.
The former Leicester Riders captain is unavailable for the campaign’s curtain-closer against Derby Trailblazers next weekend, meaning Saturday’s StormDome meeting with Yorkshire Dragons will be his final outing.
Nelson-Henry said: “I would like to give a massive thank you to everyone involved with Hemel Storm.
“From the management to the volunteers, you all made sure that things ran smoothly and that we, as players, were always taken care of.
“Thank you to the coaches that have led our club to a number of titles in my time here.
“Thank you to my teammates, who made basketball fun and always supported me and my family and friends.
“And finally, thank you to the fans, who truly made Hemel a home away from home. I was lucky to have so many great people around - thank you for everything!”
The 6’11” centre captained the Riders to four trophies in his three-and-a-half years in the BBL, twice named in the Team of the Season.
Having previously played professionally in Austria and Poland, he briefly entered retirement after leaving the Riders, but could not resist a call from Storm midway through the 2023/24 campaign.
His quality and professionalism helped Mark Clark’s side to a playoff championship, going on to claim the NBL Division One regular season crown the following year.
His leadership and calming influence have been pivotal in Storm’s success, and the respect he commands has made him a hugely influential figure in the locker room. He’ll now take those skills into a new commercial role at London Lions.
Chairman Tony Humphrey said: “It has been an absolute privilege to have Darien as part of our journey over the last two-and-a-half seasons, and I’m sure everyone involved in the club would agree.
“The fact he agreed to join us after a break from the game was one of those moments we'll look back on as hugely significant.
“We’ve been very fortunate to absorb his experience and leadership, and enjoy his incredibly consistent performances, be that in winning two national league titles, or in this inaugural and challenging BCB season.
“We all wish Darien and his partner Greta the best of health and happiness, and of course look forward to staying in touch as Darien embarks upon a new off-court role at London Lions.”
Be sure to get down to the StormDome this Saturday as we wave goodbye to the big man. Tickets for the clash against Yorkshire Dragons are available on the Fanbase app.
Written by Callum Humphrey
