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When the Titans of Trinity Episcopal School (TES) (Richmond, VA) prepared to open up their 2018-19 school season this past winter, they likely knew attention would center on them just as, if not, more than any other private school program within the 804. This notion mainly stemmed from the fact that two of the area's best players for the past two years, Jason Wade '18 and Armando Bacot, Jr. '19, had departed from the TES roster (Wade now plays for Old Dominion University and Bacot, Jr. transferred to basketball powerhouse IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL). Some programs might have just seen it as an excuse to settle for a ‘down year.' Nevertheless, TES knew they had enough tools to continue their forceful reputation in Richmond, after being consistently ranked as a top-two area school during the 2017-18 season. This year had its share of ups and downs but maintaining focus in the latter part of the season resulted in the Titans adding another Prep League conference tournament championship to the trophy case; their third consecutive title. One particular individual, Luke Smith ’22, had to spend his freshmen campaign in a different way compared to his teammates; sidelined with a season-ending injury. Fast forward to today, however, and the underclassman has progressed his way back on to the hardwood in successful fashion. He's looked as one of the more impressive 2022 prospects I've scouted in this spring of travel ball.
Those who have been following my Phenom Hoops work since the beginning might remember one of my first player features back in late-August 2018, centering on TES standout and older brother of Luke, Burke Smith. The 6'11' Burke gave a great interview, as we briefly discussed how athletics have always played a large role in the Smith household. Parents Scott and Heather Smith both had collegiate playing experience in basketball and volleyball, respectively, at The College of William and Mary (Williamsburg, VA) during the late-80s, early 90s. As one can probably guess, Burke's exceptional height stems from his parents also; Scott stands at 6'8' and Heather at 6'0.' The youthful Luke already holds an impressive 6'7' frame. At that age, who knows where he'll peak at, height-wise. I can recall having a conversation with Scott, who said to not be surprised if Luke ends up becoming the tallest in the family.
An unfortunate turn of events for Luke happened last summer after he tore his ACL in a typical gym workout. Bluntly put, it's one of the most devastating injuries for anyone, athlete or not, and takes many months to recover. This would mean a setback in Luke missing his entire first season of high school; a realization I'm sure that came with much disappointment. Still, various incidents tend to serve a purpose and I'm sure one with optimism could point out a couple of positive takeaways that occurred for the Titan freshman this past season. He impressively held a spot on the varsity roster and had a chance to see things as more of an analyst from the bench.
'Obviously, sitting out the whole season was pretty boring,' Luke admitted. 'However, I was able to evaluate how the team performed and what they'll need from me next season. I also learned that my team needs more connection during the game and more communication.'
Yep, injuries are never fun…I know from past experience. Taking it all in as more of a spectator does have its benefits, however; it seems like Luke had the right approach in determining what did and did not work for TES during the lengthy winter. His knowledge may later emerge in a crucial moment at some point down the road.
Thankfully, the process of recovery is now in the past and Luke has been spending his spring playing up an age division for Team Richmond Garner Road 16u (TRGR); an established program based out of the area. I've seen his squad play quite a few games in the recent ‘Zero Gravity Southern Showdown' and ‘Hoop Group Pitt Jam Fest' tournaments. I must say that, every time they've performed, Luke's always stood out. He brings an absolute toughness to the floor with an addition of post and perimeter skills. His strong size in the paint, along with footwork, allows him to bully his way in for finishes off of post moves and/or short drives. If defenders react too late, Luke can also step out to swish perimeter shots with range. Rebounding has looked as his strongest asset, however, as this results mainly by that aforementioned trait of toughness. TRGR 16u can expect plenty of second-chance attempts off of misses whenever Luke takes the floor. It's been great to see how well he's made his way back into competitive play, especially against older competition, following that tedious injury.
'Since coming back to the court, I feel like I've improved mentally but am still not in shape, which will come with time. There are some challenges that come with playing up in AAU, but I try to not make excuses since I'm as big as everyone else.'
It definitely takes a while to fully get one's wind back after sitting out for almost ten months. Luke could've fooled me with that statement of not being in shape, though, considering how hard he plays consistently. A positive notion involves him not having to worry about carrying the load for TRGR 16u. They've caught my eye in equal measure to any other top 16u team I've seen throughout these past two months. Five out of the roster's ten players stand at 6'5' or taller and versatility at different positions make them a dangerous bunch to match up with. If you haven't had a chance to watch them live yet, I recommend to find an available time to do so ASAP.
'I feel that our (TRGR 16u) greatest quality is our chemistry. We execute and play well together; always making sure everyone's head is up. Once tournaments pick back up (in July), I think that we need to make sure our minds are right and get locked in.'
Per usual, these next few weeks in June will bring a different type of scene, since rarely any travel ball tournaments take place. However, Luke and other younger hoopers should still find opportunities for game play with summer leagues, team camps, and other high school showcase events all taking place. Luke plans to spend some time with his TES peers, as the Titans committed to attend Blue Ridge School's (St. George, VA) ‘Virginia Live Period Shootout' (6/21 – 6/23 and 6/28 – 6/30). They will also partake in a local summer league. It should prove beneficial for Luke in getting more reps with his guys and possibly make a statement to any spectators of what he can bring to the table during these next three years of high school. TES fans obviously may not know anything yet about the rising sophomore but they should discover quickly that he's oozing with promise. His collection of size, IQ, skill, and focus makes him one of the 2022 Richmond talents I'm most intrigued about.
'I want people to notice that I can be used in many different ways…not just playing as a big man. As high school keeps going on, personally, my biggest accomplishment would be to pull in offers. I just want to prove that I worked hard for those and have a chance to play in college.'
With the direction, he's currently headed, that personal recognition should start flowing in quite soon. College programs have already taken notice of Burke, who's pulled in about ten offers up to date; the most recent one coming from James Madison University yesterday (6/3). That same type of attention has high chances of drifting towards Luke's way, as long as he keeps up the hard work. I personally feel he might blow up as an elite player in Richmond's 2022 class.
Hang on now, where does Luke Smith see himself in ten years'
'In ten years, I want to be playing in either the NBA or overseas. I know the NBA is a hard thing to obtain, but I want that to be my main goal in life.'
Keep it going Luke, and keep that knee healthy! High, high ceiling.
