Leicester Riders have agreed terms with Alex Smith to depart the club to pursue career opportunities in the US outside of basketball.

The point guard thanked the club upon her departure and stated: “I would just like to say a huge thank you to the Riders organisation, sponsors, fans, coaches, and most importantly my teammates for the unbelievable support they’ve given over the past three seasons.

“It has been an incredible journey and I am sadden to announce I will be leaving the club.”

She added: “I have an amazing job opportunity back home bringing me closer to my family that was afforded to me after achieving my MSc at Loughborough School of Business and Economics. The Leicester Riders will always have a piece of my heart and I wish the club a successful future.”

Meanwhile head Coach Krumesh Patel thanked Smith for her service to the team and the club over the past two and a half seasons.

“Alex Smith will be a loss to a the programme,” he stressed.

“She has been incredible over her time in Loughborough and Leicester and has made an impact both on and off the court.

“It was a difficult decision for her, but she has made the best decision for her and her family so I want to wish her all the best and thank her for everything she has done for the Riders and for me.

“I know the group will rally together and finish off what we have started this season. Alex will always be welcomed back to Leicester and will forever be a Rider.”

Leicester Riders will host Nottingham Wildcats in the WBBL Trophy on Easter Sunday at Loughborough University’s Netball Centre.