6’8” 2019 Khydarius Smith
Nation Ford (Fort Mill, SC)
Smith has all the tools to be a big time prospect and the light is coming on brightly. The lefty has great length and explosion to make him a force on the block and boards and the ball skills that give him the ability to attack from the high post and wing. So much that you are able to do with Smith and he is now understanding of how very good he could end up.
After watching Smith, with Nation Ford, at UNC-Charlotte Team Camp this summer National Analyst Rick Lewis said,“Standing a strong and lengthy 6’8, Smith is an absolute beast on the boards. He is two-handed rebounder that secures rebounds with authority. We were impressed with his high motor and eagerness to play defense, which is not often seen, even in a team camp setting.”
Last year Smith stepped into a leadership role for his school. Nation Ford was classified into a newly made SCHSL 5A schools. This is the state’s largest classification, which in turn has many of the state’s powers. As a sophomore Smith averaged 10 points, 8.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game. Great numbers for his first year as a starter.
Now Smith has been asked to step up in more of a leadership role. Smith has grown an inch to 6’8”. He is stronger which really adds to his already long and explosive frame. In this new found feature role this season, Nation Ford has started off 4-0 and Smith is averaging an eye-popping 11.5 points, 12 rebounds, 6 blocks and 3 assists.
As with most of the top prospects in South Carolina, Smith participated in the South Carolina Top 80. This event brings together South Carolina’s best prospects to compete under one roof, against one another. In 2017, Smith was considered by all in attendance, as one of the breakout performers. After his showing we wrote, “Smith has always had tools, his ability is now growing into his frame. Smith measured a 6’10” wing span to go along with a 34” vertical leap. The lefty has a very quick first step to get downhill and he has explosion when at the rim. It seems the light is coming on for Smith as he was very aggressive throughout this camp, claiming a Hampton offer currently that list should rapidly expand.”
Smith is right in the middle of his come up. He already carries an offer from Hampton, which is a good starting point as a junior. So many more will be coming however as there is a lot to like with him. A mis-match forward on offense who is able to rebound and defend multiple positions.
Get in now, soon enough it’ll be too late.