NDHS Alum Jarrod West Takes Next Step in Pro Game in High-Level Chinese Basketball Association
By Jeff Toquinto on October 10, 2022
Apparently, the audition into professional basketball for Jarrod West proved to be noticed by more than just those in New Zealand. As a member of the Nelson Giants and the New Zealand National Basketball League (NBL), West was more than just good.
He earned Defensive Player of the Year, an all-star, assist leader, and named top guard in the league and was among the league leaders in multiple categories. Now, he will be cutting his professional teeth in a much bigger and even more prominent league.
This month, the Notre Dame High School graduate and state player of the year will be participating in the Chinese Basketball Association (CBA). He will be on the roster of the Fujian Sturgeons.
West, who played Division I hoops for Marshall and ended it with a fifth year at Louisville, will see his season begin in the next few days. The campaign runs from mid-October into Late March. And it is a chance to play a really high level of international basketball.
“Getting an opportunity to continue my early professional career in China is just another blessing added to my list. It means everything to 
me that I get a chance to do what I love while traveling and seeing different parts of the world,” said West. “It also means a lot to me that I'm a professional now.
me that I get a chance to do what I love while traveling and seeing different parts of the world,” said West. “It also means a lot to me that I'm a professional now.
“It means all the sacrifice and hard work has paid off,” West continued. “The good thing is I'm just getting started and I'm extremely thankful and grateful for this opportunity.”
Those that know West are not surprised his hard work is paying off. Going back to his prep days, into college, and even in last year’s season in New Zealand, West’s top-of-the-line conditioning allowed him to be a force on both ends of the floor.
Now, he will be competing in a league that is considered among the best in the world outside of the NBA. In fact, the league is known for featuring multiple former NBA players such as Stephon Marbury, Tracy McGrady, Gilbert Arenas, Steve Francis, Metta World Peace and Kenyon Martin, Michael Beasley, Aaron Brooks, Jimmer Fredette, Al Harrington, and a host of others.
The Fujian Sturgeons also signed former NBA player Thon Maker, who was the 10th pick by the Milwaukee Bucks in the 2016 NBA Draft. Maker, a seven-foot center, has played with the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Editor's Note: Photos of Jarrod West courtesy of the Mike Pero Nelson Giants (New Zealand) Facebook page.
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