The 24-year-old joins the club having played one season in Ireland following a move from America, and it is hoped he will help the Rockets in their bid to reach the British Basketball League.

Zurn, who is 6ft4, spent four years at Gettysburg College in Washington State before moving to Ireland, bringing with him a wealth of experience on the court.

Rockets Director of Coaching, Matt Johnson, was delighted to agree terms with Zurn and hopes he can bring something to the Rockets that they have been lacking.

“Alex is a really good player for us to have,” he said. “He brings that American experience that we haven’t had for a while now so we are delighted to bring him into our organisation.

“It was good to be able to see him train and play last month and he didn’t disappoint, so I feel we have made a good step into building our team for the next season.”

Zurn impressed in a trial match against Wales last month and hit the winning shot to give the Rockets victory by one point.

It was that performance that persuaded the Rockets to make him their first signing of the close season, and Reading Chairman Gary Johnson hopes there will be more to come.

He said: “Alex is the type of player we are really looking for here at the Rockets.

“He is a hard worker, enthusiastic in what he does, and will bring a different dynamic to the team, so we are thrilled he will be able to join us here in Reading.

“I am hoping we can add to our roster soon and I’m really looking forward to another season as we look towards competing in the BBL in the near future.”

Elsewhere, there was good news for Rockets Under 15s star Jay Carter recently as he was selected for the England Under 15s side to travel to Copenhagen.

The 6ft 5ins forward was selected by Head Coach Jesse Sazant and was a contributing factor in his team’s success.

Johnson believes he will have many more call ups to the England set up - if he keeps working hard as he has done in the past few years.

Johnson added: “Jay has worked hard over the past four years to start himself on the journey towards being an elite senior basketball player.

“The selection to the England Under 15 squad is a reflection of his dedication and commitment, and we are very proud of Jay’s achievements.

“I am sure he will go on to represent his country again in the future.”

Elsewhere, Rockets Under 18s Women’s player Freya Szmidt underwent successful surgery to her shoulder recently.

She is attending the University of Calgary this year and will become a part of the Calgary Dinos basketball programme for the upcoming season.