Former Chattanooga Guard Malachi SmithThe top men’s basketball transfer available on the portal has committed to Gonzaga, he Announced on social media Thursday.
“I had the opportunity to play for Mark Few’s Hall of Fame coach and wanted to be part of the culture of victory for a team with a family atmosphere,” Smith told ESPN.
Smith chose Zags over groups including Louisville, Texas Tech, DePaul, and Stanford, but has been interested in almost every school in need of security guards since entering the transfer portal in late April. ..
Smith of the Southern Conference Player of the Year was one of the best mid-sized players in the country last season, averaging 19.9 points, 6.7 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game, shooting 40.7% from the 3-point range. .. He also said he was testing the NBA Draft waters before withdrawing to the NCAA deadline and gathered valuable feedback from the team about what they want the team to do to improve their professional status. ..
“They want me to show me that I can be a versatile defender against the NBA’s talent while continuing to show offensive games as a point guard,” he said. “They want me to be able to compete at this level.”
Smith joins the Gonzaga team, returns a few key players, and is considered as the No. 1 pre-season team with North Carolina.This includes pre-season National Player of the Year candidates Drew Timme Two other starters from last year’s NCAA Tournament No. 1 5th grade comprehensive seed Rasir Bolton And junior Julian Stroughter -Both 2-digit scorers.
Two important reserves from last season for senior power forwards Anton Watson And second grade point guard Nolan Hickman Joined the LSU Transfer Center and came back Efton Reed..
Smith says it was fascinating to be part of a team aiming for a national championship. Even if there is no guarantee, he will be the focus of the attack and so many talented players will come back.
“Many winning teams competing for the title have great work,” he said. “Kansas has four or five guys who could have been guys from different teams. Gonzaga’s Final Four Team had four or five players who could play in the NBA. Great team. Being part of, I know everything works. As long as we win the game, it should. “
Perhaps most important for Gonzaga, Smith brings in combat-tested and experienced guards known for his vocal leadership.
“I’m talented, but I was also in March Madness,” he said. “I led the team in running the tournament. I’m a leader and I use my voice to know where the guy needs to be to help everything run smoothly. I have experience. My goal is to be part of something special and improve my game. “
