At the beginning of each new year, Phenom Hoops works to assemble a series of articles centered around unsigned prospects in the senior class. Last season, over one hundred players from North Carolina went on to play at the Division I, II, III, or NAIA levels (with several others exploring the JUCO path). That number looks likely to continue increasing with the current senior class. Typically, we try to highlight guys who are under-recruited by college coaches or overlooked by the masses. This edition will feature Taye Smith of Combine Academy.
We’ve seen Smith since his middle school days, previously stating, “Meanwhile, Smith is someone who should probably have more action within his current recruitment. Although multiple schools have gotten involved, there should be more programs enticed by his steady, productive presence on both ends of the floor. At 6-foot-7 with long arms and a strong frame, Smith is able to compete physically with essentially any type of matchup. He outworks opponents for rebounds and loose balls, and shows a clear willingness to do whatever possible to provide his team with an edge. Smith can finish around the basket, score out of the post, or hit jumpers at a healthy rate from midrange or beyond the arc. He moves very well for his size, rebounds nicely on both ends, and displays the ability to contain big men while actively switching (and containing) smaller opponents. Both guys have proven their worth as players and long-term prospects, and should only continue to collect offers over the coming months.”
It’s genuinely surprising that more programs haven’t extended offers to Smith, especially as a power forward who plays hard, defends with toughness, and excels as a low-maintenance piece offensively. Smith finishes well around the basket, both through contact and above the rim, but can also space the floor or attack downhill off the bounce. He moves well for his size and possesses a strong frame. Smith doesn’t shy away from physical play and routinely contains much bigger opponents defensively. He’s a quality rebounder who runs the floor and fills the lane properly in transition. Smith’s highly adaptable game is a massive part of what should appeal to various types of college coaches. He will be an impactful piece wherever he ends up.