Why Jordan Smith Jr. Could Be The Answer as Razorbacks Search for Shooters

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – There has been some skepticsm over how Arkansas isn’t bring in a pure three-point shooter in its backcourt for next season.

When looking solely off high school and grassroots production that can be a fair assessement for some points. Most importantly, watching the transformation of a college prospect throughout their entire development matters most.

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Arkansas freshman guard Jordan Smith, Jr. arrived to Arkansas last month as the No. 2 player in the nation, according to 247Sports and expectations are going to be sky for him. Likely the biggest task for him will be handling the pressure of being compared to last year’s All-American point guard Darius Acuff.

Arkansas Razorbacks coach John Calipari talks with guard Darius Acuff Jr. (5) during a time out against the Oklahoma Sooners during the first half at Bridgestone Arena. | Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

Each have a different playing style, body types and skillsets that make them unique one-and-done stars under coach John Calipari. Acuff would be a tough act to follow for any player on any team across the country, but Smith is fully equipped to carry that load as a dynamite scorer and ball handling.

The 6-foot-2, 200 pound freshman is the reigning Gatorade National Player of the Year after improving on his overall game during his final year of prep ball at Paul IV Catholic School. Smith averaged nearly 27 points, six rebounds, six assists and three steals per game while shooting 56% from the field, 37% from three and a modest 72% at the free throw line.

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He thrived as the team’s facilitator and go-to option for offense which is key going into his first season at the college level. Smith excels most on the defensive end where he applies physical on-ball pressure, creates turnovers and is a switchable piece off pick-and-roll action to lockdown opponents.

His work as a rebounder, especially along the perimeter, allows him to initiate fastbreaks that was a key part of the Razorbacks success…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/why-jordan-smith-jr-could-180006476.html

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Publish date : 2026-06-21 18:00:00

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