Teenage Canterbury High School basketball star James Lloyd’s hopes of a professional career have taken a step forward after he was signed to play college ball in the USA.

Lloyd, who plays for Folkestone Saints has committed to Northern Iowa Area Community College (NIACC), who play in one of the top junior college leagues in the country.

The 6ft 3in guard was the leading scorer in the Elite Academy Basketball League last season, averaging 22.2 points, 5.5 rebounds and three assists per game.

Lloyd also played for Brixton Topcats in the National Basketball League, starting for the senior team and winning their offensive player-of-the-year award.

He said: “I’m over the moon to have been offered the opportunity of a lifetime. It’s always been my ambition to go to America to play basketball since I was young.

“I feel that NIACC’s style of play and the quality of coaches are a perfect fit for me.”

He added: “Training at Canterbury every day has allowed me to develop at a rate which is hard to find in England. The coaches and my team-mates have pushed me and supported me and the professional environment has given me everything I need to reach my goals.”

Canterbury head coach Jesse Sazant said: “I am happy for James to have committed to NIACC. He has been with me for the last seven years. The way he has transformed himself into the elite player he is has been a great process to see. He has committed himself to developing his body, mindset and skill level.”

FULL STORY IN THIS WEEK'S KENTISH GAZETTE