Leader emerges for Tracy Smith

Three-star 2007 prospect Tracy Smith has trimmed up yet playing big for Mt. Zion Academy in Durham, N.C., according to head coach Antonio Fozzard. The 6-foot-7, 235-pound power forward is the target of a lot of recruiting activity, but one Big 12 school stands ahead of the rest.

"Iowa State is Tracy's leader," said Coach Fozzard. "They have an offer for him as do a bunch of other schools. In the last four weeks I've had calls from Duke, Louisville, Michigan State, St. John's, Miami, Texas and Kent State concerning Tracy."

Averaging an impressive 27 points and 11 rebounds per game, Smith has made significant strides in his conditioning.

"He's lost around 35-pounds since the summer," said Fozzard. "Now he is playing more of a three/four for us. The weight loss has really helped his face up game. He's running the floor extremely well, and he still has those great hands and great feet in the post.

"We're working hard on his basketball IQ-when to pass and when to shoot. Defensively, he needs to improve at fronting his man and giving a consistent effort. Offensively, we will keep working on his perimeter game."

Fozzard spoke highly of Smith's practice habits and said he should have no problem qualifying.

Tracy Smith scouting report:

With a wide body and good hands and feet, Smith is legitimate back to the basket scorer. He has a very good feel for sealing his man and can score through contact. Possesses the ability to extend his offensive game away from the basket, but his ability to defend both on the perimeter and the post needs to improve. He must keep his weight in check and improve his lateral quickness.