Four-star junior Jai Smith talks suitors and possible reclass

In October, I introduced Jai Smith of Bull City Prep in Durham, North Carolina. He mentioned tons of schools that had been showing interest, many of those have now turned into scholarship offers and I’d say since the last time he and I spoke, he’s quickly become a heavy target amongst several high-major programs.

Smith has been extremely productive for Bull City Prep. His recent string of games recently: 

- 22 points and 10 rebounds & 15 points, 10 rebounds, and three blocks (Game MVP).

Point is, he’s established himself as one of the most physically skilled bigs in the 2022 class, and here was my October scouting report on Smith:

“Smith fits the modern-day build that we see all around the game of basketball. Standing at 6-foot-9, he’s a long-athletic and dynamic forward that can run the floor extremely well. My favorite aspect of his game and probably Smith’s as well as his ability to defend and rebound the ball. He’s a hard-nosed prospect with tons of upside.”

His current measurements: 6-foot-10, 240-pounds. He grew an inch and gained 10+ pounds of muscle since this summer. He’s gifted physically and it’s all apart of the reason he’s such a heralded prospect amongst high-major programs.

Smith discussed his recruitment with Stockrisers.com and discusses a possible move into the 2021 class.

Which schools are heavily involved in your recruitment?

“Houston, Kansas, Memphis, NC State, Georgia, Marquette, Illinois, LSU, and Alabama.”

How about some of the newer programs involved?

“Texas, Baylor, Indiana, Ohio State, and Washington.”

Let’s discuss some of those heavily involved schools, how about Houston?

“Houston loves players like me and plays through guys like me. They’re a top program every year and they’ve been very successful with players in my position and also have a nice connection with the Houston Rockets which is cool.”

How about a program like Memphis, which you have spoken highly on?

“Memphis has a great program with a legendary player-coach and they also compete. They have had players similar to me one being Precious Achiuwa who was just drafted.”

What about a rising program in Illinois?

“Illinois has a great developmental system and the players are dogs, guys who want to compete and get better. I know the players and love how fast-paced they play.”

How about a possible move into 2021, still thinking about it?

“There is a chance that I can move up.”