University of Illinois Fighting Illini Men's Basketball Player Profile - Jamar Smith

Player Profile: Jamar Smith
Position: Guard
Height: 6'3"
Class: Junior
Hometown: Peoria, IL

Player Summary

Smith was a surprise freshman for the Illini in the '05-'06 season. He shot a blistering 48% from three point range. But, when he was no longer a secret, he had a harder time getting his shot off when teams began to key in on him a little more. Last year was much worse for Smith. He may have been battling some injuries, but his play dropped off significantly. While his shooting stroke still looks perfect, they just weren't falling. Then after an off-the-court incident (which does not need to be rehashed here), Smith was suspended for the remainder of the '06-'07 season and all of last season. Like Alex Legion, who transferred from Kentucky in mid-year, Smith is likely to have quite a bit of rust to shake off upon his return to college basketball. Unlike Legion, Smith will be able to tune-up during the non-conference schedule.

Statistics for '06-'07 Basketball Season

Minutes: 22.5
Points: 8.1
Rebounds: 1.6
Assists: 1.9
Steals: 0.9
Blocks: 0.1

Player Strengths

Without any doubt, Smith's primary strength is shooting. He's above-average athletically, puts forth effort in on-the-ball defense, and takes pretty good care of the ball. But, shooting is what gets him on the court. He has one of the quickest, most beautiful jump shots in college basketball. He's also shown some leadership in the past on-the-court, if not off-the-court.

Player Weaknesses

Smith's streakiness is one of his biggest weaknesses. You just never know if he's going to be on or off on any given night. When he's off, it looks like every shot will go in, but they just don't. When he's on, there's just not a lot you can do because of his quick release. Smith also seems to have a hard time with off-the-ball defense.

Player Projections

The reports from practices are that Jamar Smith would have been one of the best players on the team last year. It sounds like he's taken the time he had to serve to improve his game and keep sharp. He'll probably be counted on to play major minutes for this team. The Illini need scorers and shooters. It will be interesting to see how Smith bounces back from his off-the-court problems and from his poor play in his sophomore season. He may be out to prove something.

Projected Statistics for Illini '08-'09 Basketball Season

Minutes: 30.0
Points: 11.0
Rebounds: 2.0
Assists: 2.0
Steals: 1.5
Blocks: 0.1

Sources:
www.espn.com
illinois.scout.com/