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The Kentucky Wildcats have a new backcourt target in the Class of 2022.
On Monday, Zags Blog writer Jacob Polacheck reported that Kentucky reached out to Nick Smith Jr., one of the top guards in 2022.
“We’re having more conversation,” Smith told Polacheck. “The culture around there [is what appeals to me]. A lot of people just look at this year and think the worst, but Kentucky has a great guard program and develops a lot of pros.”
In addition, 247 Sports recruiting analyst Travis Branham says that, “If Kentucky offers, I believe they will become the team to beat.”
Hailing from Sylvan Hills High School in Arkansas, Smith is ranked 25th overall in 2022 by 247 Sports in addition to being the second-best shooting guard. However, Rivals has him ranked 36th overall and 14th among point guards.
The 6-4, 170-pound guard already has offers from the North Carolina Tar Heels, Kansas Jayhawks, Auburn Tigers, Arkansas Razorbacks, Texas Longhorns, Florida Gators and Baylor Bears among others. So it’s safe to say he’s a very hot commodity, despite being over a year away from landing on a college campus.
Back in December, there were rumblings that Smith could reclassify into 2021, but he at least tried to slam the door shut on that possibility.
“No shot,” Smith told StockRisers’ Jake Weingarten of a possible reclassification.
Kentucky has already offered several guards in 2022, including Jaden Bradley and Shaedon Sharpe while also having a pledge from Skyy Clark. Scoota Henderson and Keyonte George are two other guys John Calipari has shown significant interest in.
If Smith does land an offer and stays in 2022, perhaps that’s a sign that Clark is still considering a move into 2021. Bradley has also been mentioned as a reclass candidate.
For now, check out some highlights of Smith in action.
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