Arkansas senior Justin Smith will forego his extra year of eligibility, hire an agent and enter the 2021 NBA Draft he announced Sunday evening. The news brings an official end to a brief, but most certainly memorable, tenure with the Razorbacks where he helped lead the program to its first Elite Eight since 1995. Below is the message he shared via Twitter.
“Dear Arkansas, this year was full of challenges for all of us, but I am proud that our team was able to overcome and find so much success. History was made, and this team will never be forgotten. A special thank you to my friends, family, and all others who have supported me thus far in my career. To Coach Muss and the rest of the staff, thank you for pushing me to be a better player each and every day. To my teammates thank you for believing in my and fighting alongside me game in and game out.
“It has been a lifelong dream of mine to play professional basketball and after talking to my family and the coaching staff, I have decided to forego my extra year of eligibility. I will begin my professional career by hiring an agent and entering the 2021 NBA Draft. WOO PIG!”
Smith averaged 13.6 points and 7.2 rebounds per game for Arkansas this season. He shot an impressive 54.5 percent from the field and his 3.3 offensive rebounds per game put him among the leaders in the country.
The 6-7 forward sustained an ankle injury in the SEC opener on December 30 that required surgery, sidelining him for several games. The Razorbacks were just 1-3 without him in the lineup but 24-4 with him on the hardwood.
Smith was tremendous for the Razorbacks in postseason play. He averaged 18.5 points and 7.5 rebounds in two games at the SEC Tournament in Nashville. Smith made his presence felt in his NCAA Tournament debut against Colgate when he scored 27 points and hauled in 12 rebounds. He followed up with 20 and six in a win over Texas Tech that sent the Hogs to the Sweet 16.
His 12-point, 14-rebound effort against Oral Roberts helped propel Arkansas to the Elite Eight, and he finished with 10 points and six boards in his final game as a Hog against Baylor.
Arkansas coach Eric Musselman shared a message to Smith Sunday evening via Twitter, as well.
“Thanks for trusting and believing in Arkansas! What an incredible season both for you individually and as a team. Can’t wait to watch and follow you at the next level! Razorback for life. #OneRazorback”
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