Smith has decided to earn his basketball education on the end of an NBA bench instead of playing in college -- which is certainly his perogative, but I hope he didn't have some self-interested hanger-on filling his head full of grandiose thoughts, convincing him that he's the next coming of Kobe Bryant and that college would be a waste of his time (and money).
This quote is understandable when you consider it's coming from an 18-year old, but still kind of troubling nonetheless:
"I think I'm ready. I've really elevated my game to a higher level," Smith told ESPN.com after working out for the Lakers, Nuggets, Jazz and Clippers on Thursday. "The (high school) All-Star games convinced me that I have what it takes to play in the NBA. I got great feedback from the NBA (draft) committee. I was told I could go anywhere (from) No. 1 to No. 16."A couple of thoughts. First, Smith's not going no. 1. If he does, whoever selects him should be forever banished to the NDBL. I'm also not sure that a high school all-star game is the best measure of a players readiness for the NBA. But I've made that and other arguments for staying in school here, here and here.
Hey, but at least I'm not bitter! Actually, I do hope he does well and turns out more like Kobe Bryant (on the court) than Joe Forte.
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