May 4, 2011
Being tall as a freshman in high school usually makes one a default candidate to be on the basketball team. In the case of 6-foot-5, 160 pound Elliott Smith of Freedom High, he welcomed that opportunity with open arms. As a freshman this past year, Smith averaged 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists for the varsity team.
This 2014 small forward will be a varsity starter next year as the Falcons look to improve on a 14-12 season that ended with a first round loss to Newark Memorial in the NCS playoffs. El, what his teammates call him, has the physical build to be an effective slasher. As a result, he models his game after Lebron James because he can drive, shoot, and attack the boards. In addition, he can also play the point if needed and can take a game over at any time if needed.
During this summer, Smith will play for his Oakland Soldiers 15U team to work on his shooting and his off hand. Oakland Soldiers 15U Coach Joe Griggs says, "Elliot is one of those players who have a HUGE upside. Both his parents are 6 foot +, and he himself is already 6'4. Elliot is long, very athletic, and aggressive with the ball. On the court, he is a very sly player who seems to always slip right into the right spot at the right time. He is aggressive from the wing. He needs to work more on his post up game and being able to handle the ball in the open court. Also needs to become a much harder worker. Tends to jog and not give 100% all the time. Takes plays off, instead of being the best player he can be, and trust me he can really be a great player if he chooses too."
Smith wants to average a double double in his second year on varsity in this upcoming season. He hopes to lead his Falcons to a deep run in the playoffs.
The recruiting process is still early for this freshman. Smith has a 3.00 GPA and would like to major in Business in college. He can play in a fast pace tempo or a half court offensive set.
"I think if he fills out and works on his game, he could be a very good NCAA level player," said Griggs. "I think he could go to a major college. For sure, PAC-12 will want him. He would fit in great at a place like Washington where they have lots of long athletic guys who get out in the open court. However, grades need to come up for most major colleges to eventually look at him. Great overall - funny, witty, very likeable."
At the recent Drew Gooden Extravaganza in Hayward, Smith showcased his skills. As the summer season progresses, he will stand out in the 15U tournaments as his height and length are noticeable. His movements on the court are fluid and natural, as he looks comfortable on the court. Smith's father played at the DII level in Texas. Depending on how much taller Smith gets, he can play any of the guard or forward positions. His frame will allow him to bulk up to handle the punishment of college play as well.
"Off the court, he is funny, a great kid, and a great teammate," continued Griggs. "There was a point this last tournament where I gave Elliot the opportunity to go back in the game, and seeing that he would have to take out one of his teammates who had not gotten a lot of playing time, he chose to sit out and let the other kid play. Real stand up kid."
The 2014 class is still early to grade out. But Smith looks to be one 2014 member who has a high ceiling. Expect El to excel in Oakley for the next few years.
No comments:
Post a Comment