"Silent Killer, Loud Impact: The Sharpshooter Fueling Monterey’s Rise"

Elijah Smothers

@Etsmothers806

IG: @E_Sway35

6'4, 180lbs, Class of 2026

Monterey HS, TX

Elijah is the weapon every coach wants in a high-stakes game: cool under pressure, deadly from deep, and relentless when the moment demands more. He’s a smooth three-level scorer with a strong feel for spacing, finding the seams with ease, and delivering buckets with confidence. He’s the heartbeat of Monterey’s offense, always ready to take over when the game gets tight or the momentum shifts. Elijah’s basketball IQ shines through in his movement, his passing reads, and his ability to punish defenses with 37.7% shooting from three and over 50% from the field. He isn’t just a threat, he’s a problem. Opponents can’t afford to lose sight of him, and when he catches fire, it’s often too late.

This past season, Elijah averaged 19.5 points, 6 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game while earning First Team All-District in Region 1, District 3-5A, and All-Tournament at the Gene Messer Classic, two honors that solidified his status as a rising force in Texas hoops. His biggest leap came in his ability to anchor the team during the biggest moments, coming up clutch in tight games and storming back from deficits with momentum-changing plays. His focus this offseason is on becoming more complete with elite-level ball handling, stronger defense, and physical gains in speed, strength, and vertical. He’s not content with just scoring, he wants to dominate every part of the game.

This AAU season, Elijah will play with JWE BC, ready to show he can impact games beyond his scoring. He’s locked in on becoming a better facilitator, defensive presence, and all-around leader. He’s especially looking forward to the Summer Hoopfest Finale in Austin, TX, during the live period, a stage where his skill set will be on full display. Back at Monterey, he’s focused on pushing deeper into the postseason and positioning himself to make a real difference at the next level. He thrives off adversity, silencing hostile crowds and reminding every doubter exactly who he is.

Off the court, Elijah loves watching anime, playing video games, listening to music, and enjoying a good movie. Through it all, his goal is to play college basketball at any level and give everything he’s got to the game that gave him purpose. The best advice he’s ever received is, “You won’t always be at 100%, but give 100% of what you have.” Elijah does exactly that every single time he steps on the court.

I assess that Elijah brings elite shooting, composure, and basketball IQ that translate immediately to the college level. His ability to impact games as a scorer and a decision-maker gives him the tools to thrive in any system, while his steady progression proves he's far from finished.

Expect Elijah to keep evolving. As his handle and physicality continue to develop, his role will expand into that of a complete offensive leader with a real defensive bite. With passion, production, and poise, he’s very well be a on a collision course with next-level greatness. Stay tuned for another monster season ahead.