"Built to Compete: Sharpshooting Grit with a High Ceiling"

Bennett Smyly

@bennettsmyly (Twitter & IG)

6ft, 165lbs, Class of 2028

Franklin HS, TN

Bennett plays every possession like it’s the last and is skilled, gritty, and always hunting for ways to impact the game. With a high-level shooting stroke and the ability to score at all three levels, he keeps defenders guessing every time he touches the ball. His handle is tight, he has a non-stop motor that never fades, and he crashes the boards like a big. Bennett plays with controlled aggression and a high IQ understanding of exactly what his team needs, whether it's a bucket, a big stop, or a momentum-changing rebound. As a scrappy defender and fierce competitor, he brings a blue-collar edge to every matchup.

Right now, he’s developing into a more complete player by learning to score off the ball, get stronger in the weight room, and finish more consistently through contact. He’s also been focused on handling defensive rebounding responsibilities against bigger players, a task he’s embraced with toughness and grit. The mental side of his game is rising, too, as he's learning to let go of mistakes quickly and staying locked in on the next play. Being coached hard has helped elevate his consistency and mindset, and it’s fueled his desire to reach another level.

Bennett is playing for the Tennessee Tigers this AAU season under Coach Chip and his strong staff, where he’s working to absorb everything and evolve his game. He’ll be competing in major tournaments like the Bob Gibbons Tournament of Champions in Atlanta, the Adidas Memorial Classic in Emerson, GA, and the Phenom Summer Havoc Live in North Carolina. Each one is a chance to test himself, learn, and showcase the next phase of his development.

What Bennett looks forward to most is the challenge, the new opportunities, the high-level coaching, and the pressure moments that make players better. He lives by a mindset his coach drives home, " Stay hungry, never take winning for granted, and don’t be complacent." That focus is already showing as he elevates his game heading into the next chapter.

I assess that Bennett is a versatile shot-maker with defensive toughness, rebounding grit, and a growing feel for how to lead a team. His blend of perimeter scoring, work ethic, and willingness to embrace hard coaching makes him a valuable asset for any program focused on development and team success.

As Bennett continues to build strength and polish his finishing and off-ball movement, expect his game to open up even more. He has the foundation, fire, and mentality to become a high-impact player at the varsity level and beyond. He will bring buckets, hustle, and heart every time he steps on the court. This gem is fun to watch. Stay tuned.