"High IQ Shooter, Relentless Motor, and Team-First Mentality"

Gabe Smith

@gabe_smith3ky

IG: @gabesmith3ky

5’10, 163lbs, Class of 2027

Conner HS, KY

Gabe is a high-IQ guard who brings passion, grit, and leadership to every possession. His game is fueled by heart and a hunger to win, whether it’s hitting a clutch jumper, making the smart extra pass, or digging in on defense. He is a fierce spot-up shooter who can also create when the offense breaks down. Gabe plays with a calm confidence that keeps his team steady in big moments. Around the rim, he’s stronger than expected and finishes through contact, while on the other end, he’s working to become a tougher, quicker defender capable of guarding different styles. He’s the type of teammate who lifts others up when things aren’t clicking and does whatever it takes to get the group back on track. Coaches can expect maximum effort, vocal leadership, and a selfless, team-first approach every time he steps on the floor.

This past season, Gabe averaged double figures on the JV team, including a 29-point game against Highlands, and played spot varsity minutes as a sophomore. What made his performance even more impressive is that he bounced back from a 12-week setback the previous year due to a broken wrist and still earned Offensive Player of the Year honors. He not only returned to form but added strength and leadership, adjusting to a new coaching staff and growing alongside upperclassmen. His offseason goals are locked in on gaining more speed and agility, tightening his off-hand handle, and continuing to develop into a complete defender. He’s been in the weight room, the gym, and the film room, focused on building the physical and mental tools needed to become a key varsity contributor.

At Bleacher Republic Nationals this past weekend, Gabe proved just how far he’s come. He scored 20 points in a gutsy 57–55 win over the MW Pumas.. His ability to step up, hit big shots, and stay composed in high-stakes moments helped push Kentucky Select to key wins. Through the spring and summer, his AAU goals were to grow his confidence with the ball in his hands and improve conditioning, and it’s clear he did both. His game continues to evolve, and with every rep, he looks more ready to be a difference-maker.

What fires Gabe up most is executing a perfect offensive set with his teammates or knocking down a big-time shot when his team needs it most. He stays composed in adversity and lets challenges fuel his work ethic even more. The best coaching advice he’s ever received is, “Go out there and give it your all no matter what”. That has become the mentally that drives him daily. His love for basketball runs deep; it’s a family passion rooted in Kentucky tradition, and he’s been immersed in the game since he was little.

Off the court, Gabe is grounded in faith, family, and service. He’s actively involved in Navigators and YoungLife, volunteers with the special needs community, and gives back through his church, First Church of Christ. Whether he’s playing sports, watching games, or just spending time with loved ones, he’s always finding ways to grow as a person and player.

I assess that Gabe’s combination of basketball IQ, shooting ability, and team-first leadership makes him the type of guard every coach wants in the locker room. He’s consistent, composed, and driven, and he brings out the best in those around him.

With more strength, speed, and reps, Gabe is on the rise. His work ethic, skill set, and mental toughness position him to be an impact varsity player this season and a trusted leader for years to come. Expect his name to keep climbing as he continues to prove himself. Stay tuned.