Indiana forward Justin Smith announced Friday that he would transfer from Indiana. Smith’s transfer will qualified as a grad transfer as he had enough credits to graduate from Indiana.
Smith is a 6’7” forward that played most of his minutes at the 3. Smith averaged 10.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per game this past season.
“Justin Smith and I had a conversation recently where we discussed his future, the Feedback from the NBA and he has made the decision to graduate and transfer for his final season of eligibility,” Archie Miller said regarding the transfer. “I support his decision and wish Justin and his family all the best in this next chapter. I’m proud of his growth as a person. He’s a great young man and has been a terrific role model off the court and in the classroom. He obtained his degree in three years from IU’s Kelley School of Business and we thank him for all his contributions to Indiana University and our program.”
It is unknown where he ends up but the fit at Indiana did seem weird. Smith probably fit in better playing as a small-ball 4 but really never got any run at that spot. I’d imagine any team that is in need of a small-ball 4 will be giving Smith a call.
For Indiana, life will go on despite Smith’s transfer. Smith is the team’s best defender and his mobility is certainly a help to the team. That being said, the Hoosiers should move towards a three-guard lineup with Khristian Lander, Rob Phinisee and Al Durham starting at the guard spots, while either Joey Brunk or Race Thompson will start next to their star, Trayce Jackson-Davis. Indiana would have made the NCAA Tournament if there was one this past season but they should still make it to the Big Dance this year.