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SoCalHoops Recruiting News

BWBA Hammered By Leon Smith
And Imari Sawyer--(July 16, 1998)

The Las Vegas Review had an interesting story today about Leon Smith (6'-10" Sr. C) who plays for the Illinois Fire along with teammate Imari Sawyer, one of the top point guards this year. The story was about how Smith, who weighs 240 strives for a unique on-court persona. According to Smith, that's why he wears one long sock high on his leg and the other low, tucked into his shoe."I did it to look a little different," said Smith. "I haven't seen anyone else doing it. It's kind of my trademark, I guess."

Uh, um, ok. Guess he never saw Tony Bland play. Wonder if it's a striped sock. Got to check it out.

Smith's other abilities on the court have a lot more to do with basketball. The Illinois Fire hammered BWBA 104-81. Smith had 20 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks. Last year as a junior in high school he averaged 20 points and 15 rebounds. Guess he had an off day on the boards yesterday.

Smith and teammate Imari Sawyer, combined for 45 points Wednesday on a wide variety of impressive transition baskets. Smith was also 4-for-8 from the line Wednesday, and did most of his offensive damage in or around the low block. Recruiting USA lists Smith as the No. 23 prep player nationwide, and veteran Fire coach Mac Irvin says Smith's potential borders on limitless.

"Leon will be as good as he wants to be," Irvin said. "He has a lot of tools, great size and a wonderful attitude. He's a very level-headed kid who is a great listener, and if you notice him on the court he never complains. He's got a great disposition and is very coachable."

According to Smith, the schools on his short list include Syracuse or DePaul. If he becomes an Orangeman, we're sure that Big Tony will show him how to really wear that sock thang.