Prospect Introduction: Amare Smith

Who is he?:

Amare, a native of Huntington, West Virginia, just completed his junior season playing with Huntington High School (Huntington, WV). They finished the year at 12-11 overall after their season ending loss to Capital by one point. When asked about his goals for next season he stated,"I want to make it back to Charleston and win a state championship for my school, family and teammates. Another goal of mine is to get offers so my family won’t have to pay for my college." Smith averaged 16.7 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 46% from the floor, 37% from the 3 point line and 67% from the free throw line this year.

He spent this past summer playing with Tru Game Elite on the Nike EYBL circuit. There he played alongside Noah Rittinger (Poca guard) and several DI prospects.

Amare is a 6'5" wing who is capable of playing 2-4. Amare excels in scoring off of the mid range jump shot. He also shoots the 3 ball well as he shot 37% from 3 (37/101 3PT). Smith is a solid ball handler, but is best used playing off the ball. Amare also has a good mid post game and is a very good passer out of the post. Smith is also solid at taking defenders off the bounce and hitting the open man. Smith is a solid defender who can guard either forward position. Amare rebounds the ball well, especially on the offensive glass (2.7 offensive rebounds per game).

Watching him play this year, he reminded me of Marcus Morris. Both are big wings who have the ability to play 2-4, score the ball from the mid range well and can stretch the defense with his 3 point shooting.

Unfortunately, last year Amare tore his ACL and was unable to play. He had a huge bounceback year leading his team in points, rebounds and 3 point percentage. When asked how it felt to get back on the court he said,"It felt good to back on the court. We didn’t reach the goals that I wanted, but it felt great to be back."

Smith prides himself on his leadership qualities, his ability to get to the basket, his shooting and his passing.

Recruitment?:

Although Smith is just a junior, he is receiving interest from Indiana Wesleyan University (NAIA), Marshall University (D1), Vanderbilt University (D1), Virginia Military Institute (D1) and Youngstown State (D1).