Smith-Rivera thinking about choice

During the Adidas May Classic one of the players who shined the brightest was D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera. The 6-foot-4 combo guard from Indianapolis (Ind.) North Central High School has been on the recruiting radar for quite some time, and now he is beginning to think things through with his decision.

During North Central's run to the Indiana 4A State title, Smith-Rivera was a major contributor. Along with Purdue signee Terone Johnson, Smith-Rivera led the Panthers from the backcourt. The 6-foot-4 and 215 pound Smith-Rivera has always been known as someone who could get to the rim, but now he is added a consistent jumper to go with it.

"I think I have elevated my jump shot a lot," said Smith-Rivera. "I have become more athletic, and becoming an all around better player."

The improved jumper has only led to more significant college attention. Always a hot commodity, Smith-Rivera just continues to add to his college list.

"Indiana, Purdue, Tennessee, Xavier, Louisville have offered," said Smith-Rivera. "Kentucky, North Carolina, Georgetown, Villanova, and Florida are interested."

According to Smith-Rivera he hopes to make a visit to North Carolina in July, and also is planning on checking out Pittsburgh and Washington before too long.

When it comes to visits he has already taken, Smith-Rivera noted a trio of stops.

"I went to Kentucky in 2009, I have been to Xavier a few times, and I have been to IU a lot of times," he said.

Since he exploded onto the radar of so many colleges early on, it almost forced Smith-Rivera to think about his college destination at a young age. In fact he admits to already thinking about making his choice.

"I have thought about (a decision), but my mom is telling me to wait," explained Smith-Rivera with a smile.

For Smith-Rivera, he says his parents just want him to be positive that he is 100 percent sure of his choice before he makes it.

"They tell me just to be patient with it," said Smith-Rivera. "Sometimes I am pretty gung-ho to do things, but they want me to be patient and make sure the decision is right."

While his parents are telling him to wait, Smith-Rivera does admit that he wants to make a choice sooner rather than later.

"Hopefully pretty soon, but I don't know," said Smith-Rivera about a timeline for a potential commitment.

For now Smith-Rivera is staying focused on his game and getting into the best shape of his life, and it is showing on the floor.