Another prospect who has taken off this summer, Smith is a poised guard who doesn’t force the issue and shoots a high percentage from beyond the arc. Smith had a clutch floater bucket late when the game was within a possession or two in the final few minutes to help extend his teams lead. That type of clutch play is why Kentucky Basketball Club NKY has been so successful at winning tournaments this spring. Smith has impacted winning on the court as during the high school season, Ryle had a strong season in 2025-26 and with an excellent 2027 core led by Smith, they should be even better next season.

Holden was one of the top scoring Juniors in the 9th region this past season and should be in the mix to be the top Senior this year. After averaging 17 points per game this year, Smith could see his average tick up a couple more points if he shoots the ball better from three in his Senior season. Holden already does a good job of getting to the rim and finishing and can also get to the free throw line consistently over the course of the game.

Holden Smith Holden Smith 6'0" | SG Ryle | 2027 State KY , along with his Ryle teammate Grace Nsuti Grace Nsuti 6'5" | PF/SF Ryle | 2027 State KY , helped lead their team to a championship at the Spencer County Bears Challenge, capturing the 11th Grade Boys title. From the weekend, Holden showed his outside shooting ability, combined with his ability to score at the basket off the dribble. He used screens well to create space for shots. He showed really great awareness and a feel on the offensive side of the floor. He had a lot of craftiness with his ball handling and scoring ability.

Holden had a big season for a Ryle team that went on a really impressive run this season that culminated in a regional title game appearance. Smith averaged 17 points per game and got himself into the mix for 9th region player of the year for next season. If he continues developing his game, Holden will have Ryle right back in 9th region title contention.

Holden Smith Holden Smith 6'0" | SG Ryle | 2027 State KY averaged a team-high 17.2 points per game this season, leading the Raiders to one of the most successful years in program history. He earned MVP honors in the 33rd District Tournament while helping guide the team to its first district title since 2014 and played a key role in the program’s first 9th Region championship since 2002, earning 9th Region All-Tournament Team honors. The Raiders finished 23-9, tied for the second-most wins in a season in program history, while posting a 14-4 record in region play and a perfect 5-0 mark in district games. Smith was also named to the NKBBCA Division I All-Conference Team.

Ryle shot 65% from the floor in their victory as they found efficient offense all night long to cruise to a victory. Smith was leading the charge as the junior off guard did a nice job of being patient as a pick and roll ball handler, curling off screens when he was ran off the line and Smith’s 3-pointer five seconds before the third quarter buzzer helped put this game away. I was also impressed with Ryle’s defensive unity, something that Smith helped contribute to significantly. It will take an incredible performance to upset top ranked Covington Catholic but Smith and Ryle certainly passed the eye test on Sunday night.

Holden Smith Holden Smith 6'0" | SG Ryle | 2027 State KY had a strong summer and is poised for a breakout season with a Ryle team that’s capable of making noise. He’s a versatile offensive threat who can score at all three levels and create for others. Smith finishes confidently around the rim, passes well within the flow of the offense, and provides steady defense on the other end. From the perimeter, he’s a legitimate threat He can’t be left open and has the range to stretch defenses well beyond the arc. He also shows good shot discipline, taking quality looks and rarely forcing the issue.