Layton Smith '25 Recruiting Profile

I aspire to play basketball at the college level and am confident in my ability to reach that dream. My work ethic in being a successful student, athlete, and person is evidence of my commitment to accomplish that goal. As a freshman, I was asked by my teachers and coach to be a peer mentor for another student - which is an honor to be chosen. My grades show that I believe that good grades are an important part of being a student athlete.  I have strong family support from my immediate and extended family to continue to grow as an athlete and person. 

Basketball is my passion! Ever since I was little, I've been surrounded by all levels of the game. I've been playing organized basketball since I was 5 and that continued to drive my enjoyment of the game into competitive traveling leagues as well as school organized teams. I am a coachable athlete and have learned from all of the coaches I have had. One thing I'm known for in my neighborhood is my willingness to teach younger kids how to play and improve their basketball skills. 

On the court, I am a diverse player who is able to play multiple positions with success. I have experience playing various roles because of my athleticism, court knowledge, flexibility to fit any position, and size. 

I find success in the 1 position because of my court awareness, getting the ball where it needs to go, and the accuracy of my outside shot. Along with being able to play all of the positions in between, I am able to transition into the 5 position and find success. My experience under the basket combined with my athleticism enables me to get the ball into the hoop, block shots, and rebound. 

Along with playing basketball, I am involved in track, baseball, golf, peer mentoring and just completed church confirmation.

As a freshman, I was rated as the #1 9th grade high jumper in the state of South Dakota, rated #1 overall in Region 4A, and placed 2nd in the State Track meet for Class A.