Smiths Play Out West Generates Big Looks
He may play at a junior college on the East Coast, but it took some Western exposure to enlighten the Division I ranks about 6-10 Westchester (NY) power forward/center James Smith.
Don't let his pedestrian name fool you. Smith is a unique talent with uncommonly good shooting skills for a big man.
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JUCO Junction profiled Smith back in the fall, but it wasn't until Westchester traveled to tournaments in Wyoming (Casper) and Utah (Dixie State College) that his recruitment picked up in earnest.
According to Westchester Asst. Coach Leon Payne, Utah, UNLV and Virginia Tech are intrigued with the still developing 235 pound big man.
"He's a finesse guy with good low post skills, but he's not a plodder," Payne explained. "He's a great shooter who can shoot from just about anywhere on the floor."
"He's a Brad Lohaus type of player," Payne continued. "But he can also play with his back to the basket and has a nice jump hook."
A native of Nyack, N.Y., Smith sat out of tonight's game against Globe Tech after twisting his knee in practice this week. Payne said his status is day to day.
Smith didn't take any visits in the fall, and will make a spring decision. Keep it tuned here for the latest on Smith and other top prospects in the JC Class of 2004.