By Chris The next in our This Year's Freshmen series is Dwayne Smith from Toronto, Ontario. Smith went to Bridgton Academy in Bridgton, Maine, and is 6'5” to 6'6", from 185 to 215 lbs.
Smith was thought to be coming to GW last season, but due to NCAA rules and the fact that he is from the Canadian school system, he was required to attend a prep school before his was allowed to join us.
ESPN reports that he has very good athleticism, quickness, and leaping ability, and good body control adjusting well in the mid-air for lay-ins when faced by an interior defenders. His shooting range extends out to the 3-point line. He also runs the floor well and finishes off plays in transition. Smith has the length and the lateral quickness to become a dominant wing defender.
Shortcomings noted by ESPN are that Smith needs to improve his ball-handling skills, and that he does not exert maximum effort at the defensive end at all times.
According to DCMetroSports and Comcast Sportsnet, Smith averaged 15 points, eight rebounds, four assists, three blocks and two steals a game as a senior at Bridgton Academy. They say that he is noted for his rebounding and court vision. According to his coach at Bridgton, “He’s a gifted scorer but could become a tough defender. Very good rebounder for his size and plays bigger than 6-6. He is perfectly suited for GW’s tempo and style. Great kid on and off the floor, very well-regarded by his teachers and peers alike.”
Coach Hobbs on Smith: “Dwayne is a very mature, physically strong player who is very athletic and runs the floor well. He will give us some maturity in terms of his basketball experience.”
According to Pat Stevens' 2008-09 rankings of all prep school players, Smith was listed as #27. Pretty solid! Here's his Bridgton profile.
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