UCLA Catches Big One, Josh Smith Commits
By Bruin Basketball Report
Kentwood HS center Josh Smith called UCLA Coach Ben Howland to give him his verbal commitment to play at UCLA next season.
The 6'9 270 lb post man had been deciding between UCLA and Washington. He can not sign officially with the Bruins until the early signing period which begins on Wednesday, November 11.
The senior had indicated earlier this week the desire to announce his decision so that he could focus on his senior season without distractions. Smith is rated either the #1 or #2 top high school center prospect in most recruitment rankings.
Smith said the allure of playing for a legendary program like UCLA was too appealing. He also expressed high regard for Coach Howland's penchant for discipline and execution from his players and teams. He understands the style of play at UCLA will help him prepare for the next level.
Josh Smith now joins Mater Dei guard Tyler Lamb in UCLA's 2010 recruitment class.
(photo credit: Seattle Times)
BBR :: Article Link :: 4:00 PM ::
11 comments
11 Comments:
This is great news. I see a trend here. Kevin Love...now Josh Smith. The Elite West big men know the road to the NBA is through Westwood!!
This is a huge commit for UCLA. Great news!
Sweet! Imagine him and Gordon guarding the paint.
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSS! Been waiting for this one. Now if we can land Harrison Barnes (outside shot, we are 1 of 5 teams left) we will have the best recruit class in the country... regardless of who we else we get!
Is this guy "out of the box" ready to play D1 Bball ala Kevin Love? Or is he a "Project" ala Bobo Morgan? Anyone? Anyone?
He isn't Kevin Love, but then nobody is. He is, however, ready to play D1 from the start more than anyone we have had since Love.
He a little chunky like Kevin Love. He'll need to hit that weightroom if he ever wants to go pro.
SOOOO stoked. Really am pumped. Think he is way closer to Kevin Love than Bo-Bo. However he does need to lose some weight and heard he had been getting a little lazy on the court. Think that is why he dropped from #1 down to lower teens in the recruiting polls. Still pumped though and wish we could get Ray or Harrison, but don't think it is going to happen. Hate both UNC & Duke but for some reason recruits like them.
I think this should work out just fine. Seems to me this kid knows what he needs....a tough coach who can whip him into shape (both mentally and physically). It's a "win-win" for Smith and Howland/UCLA.
iT IS GREAT NEWS, HOWEVER IS HE ANOTHER "LOVE" ONE AND OUT OR WILL HE STAY...i AM STILL A SUPPORTER OF AT LEAST A 2 YEAR COMMITMENT...
He probably is a 2 year player. very good skillwise but just needs a little more grooming than what he would receive in just one year at UCLA.Ill think hell be here 2 years
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