Averaging 12.6 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.2 assists per game in his senior season for Trico, Jesse Smith garnered a lot of attention from universities and athletic recruiters for his services.
After much consideration, Smith chose to take his talents to Rend Lake and play for coach Randy House.
“Jesse plays hard, but he plays under control,” said House. “He makes good decisions and knows his limitations. He doesn’t force shots, and he makes the players around him better. He comes from a good program under coach Shane Hawkins, and he is a proven winner.”
Smith was named MVP of the Black Conference West Division and was also selected to the All South team and honorable mention All State by the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association.
House went on to say that along with being a good basketball player, Smith is a good student and a good person.
“We are recruiting character as well as a basketball player,” added House.
Rend Lake is looking to rebound from a 3-21 season in 2010-2011.