Gladiators Boosted By Big Forward Small

Caledonia Gladiators strengthened their roster ahead of Friday night's home game against Sheffield Sharks announcing the addition of American forward Isiah Small (202-F-1998, college: Texas St.).

And Small had an immediate big impact scoring 15 points and pulling down 17 rebounds for a huge double-double that helped his new side to an excellent 87 - 79 victory over a Sharks team that had been previously unbeaten.

The 6'8" forward from Jersey City, New Jersey had been training with the team over the last few weeks and was ready to make an immediate competitive impact and that's exactly what he did.

Small knows the league well. Last season he averaged 14.9 points, 8.6 rebounds and 3.2 assists for Surrey 89ers before moving to the New Zealand NBL with the Manawatu Jets, here he averaged 16.0 points and 8.9 rebounds a game.

Small has scored consistently across an extensive global career. He averaged 16.2 points with Lok Bernau in Germany, 17.6 points and 9.8 rebounds in the Georgian Superleague, and 17.1 points with Svendborg Rabbits in Denmark's Basketligaen. He has also played in Israel's Winner League with Ironi Kiryat Ata.

Before turning professional, Small spent three seasons at NCAA Division I Texas State. He finished 4th on the programme's all-time blocks list and 18th for career rebounds, leading the Bobcats in rebounding in his final season.

Head of Professional Teams, Lisa Palombo commented prior to Small's superb debut:

“We're really pleased to welcome Isiah to the team. Having previously played in the league, he brings valuable experience and an understanding of what it takes to compete at this level."

"Isiah will bring a genuine presence and adds another dimension to our game. Importantly, we believe his strengths will complement the pace and energy of our current roster. We're excited to bring him into the group and look forward to the impact he can make.”

Prophetic words as Small certainly announced his arrival in Caledonia in fine style.