Colin Smith, a 6-foot-8 forward out of Dallas, took the time to speak with me regarding his next chapter at Vanderbilt, his senior season at upcoming powerhouse AZ Compass Prep in Arizona, and more.
Smith chose Vanderbilt University over other programs that recruited him throughout his high school career. Those schools included Michigan, Arizona State, Arkansas, Baylor, Auburn, Kansas, Illinois, and others just to name a few.
“I think the combination of the academic, athletics, conference, and the location was just a perfect mixture. The coaching staff have people who have played and coached in the NBA and G league, so all that knowledge and wisdom is hard to find anywhere else.” Colin answered after I asked him why he chose Vanderbilt out of all schools.
Smith could make an immediate impact on the court with the Commodores next college basketball season as a freshman. He holds positional size, a versatile wing, one of the better defenders in the 2022 class, has the athleticism, and will be able to space the floor with his perimeter shooting.
I asked him what does he think he can bring to the team next season as an incoming freshman?
“I think I can make a big impact with my versatility. As a player who can really shoot the ball, finish around the basketball, has great vision, and a high IQ. Also someone that can be used as a two way player and make needed plays on the defensive end.” He answered.
Smith transferred into upcoming powerhouse, AZ Compass Prep, which is located right outside Phoenix in Arizona, for his senior year.
He was apart of a top-10 ranked nationally team all season long and was playing on one of the biggest stages in the world of high school hoops for the first time ever.
“It was really good. It really was a great experience bonding and getting to know other high level guys, but I think most importantly it prepared me for the college level with the atmosphere we were in living away from home, playing top competition around the country, and working out and practicing everyday simulated what college would be like.” Smith explained when asking how was his experience like at AZ Compass Prep.
“It also proved to me regardless of where services ranked me, I was much closer to the top tier because of the way I dominated practices and “the guys” didn’t have typical games when I defended them!” He continued to explain.
Going into college, I asked Colin what does he think he needs to work on as he continues to grow and develop as a basketball player?
“I think I can work on my whole game. I’m never gonna be satisfied with where I’m at but I think I’m developing my game coming off pick and roll and being more confident as a ball handler.” He said.
The Grind Hoops by Samad Hines 