Tracy Smith wants to play in the NBA when his college career is over but professional basketball will have to wait. Smith, N.C. State's leading scorer and rebounder, will return for his senior season, he said Wednesday.
"I'll wait my turn next year," Smith, a junior, said. "I want to graduate and be ready."
Smith averages 17.1 points and 7.9 rebounds per game for the last-place Wolfpack. Smith called the season "frustrating" for both the Wolfpack's record, 3-10 in the ACC, and the constant double-teams but said he feels his NBA stock would go up with another college season.
Smith, an undersized power forward listed at 6-8, said he would rely on Wolfpack coach Sidney Lowe, a former NBA coach, for advice. Smith said he has been encouraged by the reports from Lowe.
"I know he'll tell me the right things," Smith said.
Comments
Very, very
Thu, 02/25/2010 - 13:23 — willncsugood news. I forgot what it even felt like to get good NCSU news.
that's two in one week
Thu, 02/25/2010 - 13:42 — JPDOhioIf you count last Saturday as part of this week.
Finally we retain our best player for their Sr. year
Wed, 02/24/2010 - 17:21 — COpackIts been a while since the Pack has been able to keep their top player through his senior year. With an emerging Richard Howell and the arrival of much needed help in the backcourt next year, Wolfpack fans have something to look forward to next season. Plus, I think this is the right move by Smith to further develop his game.
Agree
Thu, 02/25/2010 - 14:06 — SurferBeen saying this for some time now. If Sid can get good athletes with talent and keep them for 3 or more years, then you will see some improvement. This is a start.
SUFER-GIRL!!!!
Thu, 02/25/2010 - 14:43 — bluecat69bluecat69about the time i think you have some bb smarts, u make a dumb statement , like the cow college can improve under skid, aint going to happen, ok, go duke!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Again!?!
Sat, 02/27/2010 - 14:19 — PuddentainYou misspelled Duke again.
Good decision, Tracy.
Wed, 02/24/2010 - 17:16 — JPDOhioDespite my selfish reasons for wanting you to stay, I do believe another year will help improve your game and your shot at an NBA career.
As good as you have been this year, there is a decent chance you can have an even better year next year. Your supporting cast should be better and if you can add an effective mid-range jumper to your arsenal, you will be that much more dangerous.
Yup
Thu, 02/25/2010 - 00:48 — Heels20I would add my thoughts, but you pretty much summed them up. I wish Ed Davis would do the same thing.