NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Top-30 2022 G Nick Smith Jr. releases top 10
By Ian Mumm
Florida Gators
A clearer roster focus centered around the backcourt has resulted in strong production from the Gators program so far this season, despite continued tinkering with the on-court pace. With a large and deep guard rotation, Florida has featured a very balanced scoring attack and had an easier time taking care of the competition. While things have been easier this season, there is still considerable depth on the roster that could prevent immediate minutes.
Smith has an edge though with his ability to create on the offensive end and make calculated moves to produce efficient plays. Getting downhill is easy for him, but taking what the defense gives him and facilitating at a high level is what the Gators could use a little bit more of. Despite the continued depth and successes attracting backcourt talent to Florida, Smith has a real shot to make an early impact and carve out a starting role with the program.
Kansas Jayhawks
The Jayhawks have taken a step back this season, after losing a lot of talent during the offseason. Their performances have been respectable and new stars are emerging, but Kansas has gone through some growing pains. The aspect of the program that has not changed is the pursuit of elite national talent and finding success doing so.
The 2021 class for Kansas is very strong but dominated by frontcourt players set to bolster the roster. The 2022 class already has the commitment of 4-star guard Kyle Cuffe Jr. but could become significantly more dangerous with the addition of Smith.
The guard depth for the Jayhawks in 2022 is currently on the thinner end and having the opportunity to add both Cuffe and Smith to the roster increases the shot creation and versatility throughout the team. If that opportunity isn’t enough, Kansas is the blood blue closest to home.