Maryland sophomore forward Jalen Smith is entering the 2020 NBA draft, he announced today in a statement on Twitter.
Although Smith is eligible to test the draft waters without forgoing his college eligibility, his comments makes it sound as if he’s ready to go pro, and Evan Daniels of 247Sports confirms (via Twitter) that the youngster is expected to remain in the draft.
“The time is right for me to move forward to the next phase in my basketball career,” Smith said in his statement after thanking his family, his teammates, Maryland’s coaches and staffers, and Terrapins fans.
In 31 games (31.3 MPG) as a sophomore, Smith averaged a double-double, recording 15.5 PPG and a team-high 10.5 RPG and 2.4 BPG. The 6’10” power forward, who earned spots on the All-Big Ten First Team and the Big Ten All-Defensive team, also showed off an improved three-point shot, converting 36.8% of 87 total attempts from beyond the arc.
Smith is a candidate to come off the board in the first round of this year’s draft. He currently ranks 30th overall on ESPN’s big board, including sixth among power forwards.
Like a Toppin lite… Tall natural shooter (even coming off a pick) and can play the 5 but with skinny hips. Problem is, Toppin uses his light legs for quick steps, while Smith looks a bit out of control doing that. He needs a system or open space (which he can make as a good runner) or maybe another half-second to react properly. Not dumb, he does clever things but so far is maybe too wrist-y and natural and needs to find the right gravitas. Baltimore late bloomer.
Came on strong late last year and could have come out but stayed to put up some fine stats… PER 31, Ortg-drtg +35.