NBA Draft 2023: Nick Smith Jr. Selected by Charlotte Hornets
In a night full of excitement and anticipation, the Charlotte Hornets made their selection at No. 27 overall in the 2023 NBA Draft. They chose Arkansas‘ freshman guard Nick Smith Jr., adding him to their roster for the upcoming season. This makes Smith the second Razorback player to be drafted in the first round, with his teammate Anthony Black being selected earlier.
Arkansas‘ Recent Success in the NBA Draft
This marks the fifth consecutive year that a player from the University of Arkansas has been drafted into the NBA. Under the guidance of head coach Eric Musselman, the Razorbacks’ basketball program has seen a remarkable rise in talent, producing NBA-ready players year after year. Smith and Black now join the likes of Jaylin Williams, Moses Moody, Isaiah Joe, and Daniel Gafford as successful Razorbacks in the professional basketball world.
Smith, a highly touted recruit and a McDonald’s All-American, was the top-ranked player in the nation in the 2022 class according to 247Sports. Despite an injury-riddled freshman season, Smith showcased his skills and potential, averaging 12.5 points, 1.7 assists, and 1.6 rebounds per game. His shooting accuracy of 37.6 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from beyond the arc demonstrates his ability to score efficiently.
The Challenges Smith Faced
Throughout his freshman year, Smith battled injuries, which limited his playing time and disrupted his rhythm. Despite these setbacks, he showed glimpses of his potential in several games, including a 26-point performance against Georgia where he displayed his scoring prowess.
Coach Musselman spoke highly of Smith, highlighting his competitiveness, love for practice, and dedication to the game. He believes that Smith’s true potential was not able to be fully showcased during his college career and that NBA teams will be pleasantly surprised by what he can bring to the court. With his injury behind him, it is expected that Smith will continue to develop and excel at the professional level.
A Promising Future
Smith’s selection by the Charlotte Hornets signifies a new chapter in his basketball journey. Joining a team that finished the 2022-23 season with a 27-55 record, Smith has the opportunity to contribute to the team’s growth and success. Playing under head coach Steve Clifford, he will have the chance to learn from experienced coaches and teammates, further honing his skills and adapting to the NBA style of play.
Advice for Smith and Other Young Players:
For Smith and other young players navigating their transition from college to the NBA, it is crucial to maintain a growth mindset and embrace the challenges that come their way. The NBA is a highly competitive league, and success requires dedication, hard work, and a constant drive to improve.
Smith’s selection is just the beginning of his professional journey. He should seize this opportunity to learn from experienced players, focus on his development, and make the most of the resources and support available to him. With determination, discipline, and a commitment to continuous growth, Smith has the potential to make a significant impact in the NBA.
Overall, Smith’s selection in the NBA Draft is a testament to the rise of the University of Arkansas‘ basketball program and highlights the talent and potential of its players. As Razorbacks fans eagerly watch their former stars flourish in the NBA, they can be proud of the foundation laid by Coach Musselman and the coaching staff.
As the NBA Draft continues and more players find their new homes, it is a reminder of the dreams and aspirations of young athletes and the transformative power of basketball. With each draft pick, new stories unfold, and the future of the NBA becomes brighter.
<< photo by Sanzhar Alimkhanov >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
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