Experienced American guard Small signs for Storm

Hemel Storm are excited to announce our second American signing of the season, 6’7” guard Jared Small.

The 29-year-old has spent the last four seasons playing professionally around Europe, after graduating from Colorado Mesa University in 2022, and will continue his education at the University of Hertfordshire. 

He becomes Head Coach Tom Baker’s second new recruit, following Jabari Nurse’s arrival last week, with Sam Newman, Kai Walker, Brayden Inger and Jovan Rai also all re-signing with the club. 

“I’m incredibly excited to be a part of the Hemel Storm family,” Small said.

“I’ve heard so many great things about the club, its passionate community, and the winning tradition that Hemel represents. 

“I can’t wait to get there, get to work, and do everything I can to help bring the club back to where it belongs.”

Small brings athleticism, size and valuable versatility, with an ability to score in a variety of ways while operating as a highly-skilled defender. 

Hailing from Aurora, Colorado, Small spent last season in Lithuania with BC Telšiai, after moving from fellow Lithuanian Basketball League outfit Plungės Olimpas, where he averaged 14.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game in his one season with the club. 

Prior to that, he spent two seasons in Azerbaijan, first with Gence BK, who he helped reach the Azerbaijan League final averaging over 15 points per game, before heading to Baku. 

In his university years, Small played a large part in the basketball setup, named the Mavericks, helping them to the most successful three years in their history, including becoming Rocky Mavericks Athletics Conference champions in 2020. 

After arriving in England, Small will continue his studies at our partner university, the University of Hertfordshire, where he will complete a master’s degree in International Business, alongside suiting up in their BUCS Premier Division games. 

"I’m delighted to welcome Jared to Hemel Storm,” said Head Coach Baker.  

“He gives us size, shooting and genuine versatility on the perimeter, alongside valuable experience from playing professionally in Lithuania and Azerbaijan.

“Jared has demonstrated that he can score at a high level, but he also rebounds, creates for others and makes an impact defensively. 

“He fits the identity we are building and gives us a player who can influence games in several different ways. We want to play with edge, aggression and confidence, and Jared brings experience, composure and a genuine two-way presence. 

“Jared will also be studying and playing at the University of Hertfordshire, which makes this an exciting opportunity for both programmes. 

“The connection between the university and Hemel Storm can provide him with a strong environment to continue his development, while allowing both teams to benefit from his experience, leadership and quality.

“I believe he will raise the level of both groups, and I’m excited for our supporters to see him in a Storm jersey.”

Written by Callum Humphrey