Joe is playing a pretty big role for a North Laurel squad that is in a complete rebuilding mode. Smith is a good slasher who is more physical than most 2027s right now. He’s shown he can get to the rim and take contact. Joe’s shooting numbers aren’t overwhelming right now but they will level off eventually as he’s a talented player with a lot of room to improve.

Smith was the Most Outstanding Player at last season’s 8th grade “State Championship” and should have a big season for North Laurel as a freshman. A strong and physically mature wing, Joe can knock down threes or put the ball on the floor and get to the rim. He could be the best 2027 in the 13th region.

Smith impacted the game in a variety of ways on Saturday for such a young prospect. The wing hit shots from the perimeter and didn’t look outmatched physically against mostly older competition. Smith also flashed some ball handling ability to create for himself. Confident attacking with either hand, I liked that Smith wasn’t afraid to go up with his off hand at the rim. This will be a name to watch in the 2027 class in Kentucky.