The Marcus Smart Debacle Continues
After Marcus Smart decided to not declare for the 2013 NBA Draft, the talk began how it was a mistake for many reasons. The jury had spoken and thought Smart's stock was at an all time high. Next was the fact that this year had a top notch crop of sensational incoming Freshman, who would certainly jump by Smart on team's radars. Smart just wanted to season his game and lead the Oklahoma State Cowboys to a National Championship game.
Smart started his Sophomore season scoring in bunches and showing off an improved jump shot, and had critics changing their tune fast. Smart looked like a lock to be a lottery pick, and still probably will be. Smart has had his personal ups and downs this season as a basketball player and now as a person making lousy non-basketball mistakes. His bad attitude, short fused temper and lack of a consistent perimeter jumper, will probably knock Smart down a few pegs on some team's draft board.
Oklahoma State Guard Marcus Smart shoved a Texas Tech fan in the final seconds of the 19th ranked Cowboys' 65-61 loss to the Texas Tech Red Raider's. Smart tried to block Jaye Crockett's dunk attempt from behind with just over 6 left but stumbled out of bounds behind the basket. As he was being helped up, he appeared to exchange words with a fan in the front row before pushing the fan with two hands. Smart then walked away, pointing back in the fan's direction. The referee's gave Smart a technical foul but did not eject him, he remained on the bench until the final buzzer sounded.
Smart has claimed to Oklahoma State coaches that the fan called him a racial slur. Smart admits that he "got caught up in the moment" and seemed remorseful. Smart is the Big-12 third leading scorer this season and is averaging 17.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.3 steals a game. We will have to learn smart's fate and see if he is suspended or not. Smart must be careful the rest of the season and continue to let his game talk on the court. Smart is a high motor, strong physical guard who can get to the rim and finish with the best of them. He has leadership skills but lets his completive fire get the best of him sometimes. Some GM's have said that Smart's poor non-basketball decisions will definitely hurt his draft stock while other GM's say it should not hurt his draft stock and he will be able to explain his actions during the interview process, if Smart should declare for the draft.
By Steven Spector -2-9-14
