The Big Guy can now bang!
October 24, 2013 - Head Coach John Thompson III and his Georgetown Hoyas were bolstered with outstanding news yesterday, learning 6'10", 300 pound plus center Josh Smith has been cleared to play immediately for the school. Smith transferred to G'Town from UCLA in January of this year after playing six games of the the 2012-2013 season.
Smith is available immediately, and under what's known as a Seasons of Competition waiver for last season, will have two campaigns available on The Hilltop.
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Thompson, via statement, on the news: "We are excited that the NCAA has approved the waiver for Joshua. Now he has to maintain a high level of commitment on and off the court. He will provide a significant low-post presence for this team" .
That, is a mild statement, as arguably no single player can guard him in the low blocks, due to his rare combination of skill, size and basketball understanding/feel.
In 2010, Smith, a native of the Seattle area, was named to All-Freshman, Pac-10, dropping 10.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game in 33 games, including 15 starts. He followed that up with a 2011-2012 sophomore campaign earning him him nine starts in 32 games, with a 9.9 point, 4.9 rebound average.
The situation deteriorated for Smith at UCLA, with his weight reportedly advancing past 350 pounds, while focus issues also plagued him.
For more on Smith and discussion of the NCAA's decision, including what theory was rumored to be advanced by the school in gaining his immediate eligibility and the waiver, and the junior's impact on the roster, see our Premium Court message board.