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Scout Report
When a prospect at 6-8 moves with the fluidity of a wing and processes the game like an upperclassman, you sit up straighter in your chair. Chase Smith isn't just a big body; he's a burgeoning force who impacts winning through his intelligence and versatility, even at such an early stage. He looks like a player built for the modern game, with tools that make you project well beyond his current age.
Background
Chase Smith hails from Matthews, North Carolina, and plays his high school basketball for Queen's Grant Academy, where he's already a significant contributor. Basketball clearly runs deep in the family, with his father also named Chase Smith, suggesting a foundation of athletic guidance and understanding. Growing up in a basketball-centric household undoubtedly gave him a head start in understanding the nuances of the game, fostering a natural feel for pace and positioning. His early development reflects this strong family influence and consistent exposure to high-level play.
Playing Style
Smith operates with a calm, deliberate tempo, rarely looking rushed, even in high-pressure situations. He's a smart decision-maker, often making the extra pass or recognizing the mismatch before it fully develops. Offensively, he’s comfortable facing up from the high post, where he can survey the court and either drive past a slower defender or hit a cutting teammate. He possesses good footwork for his size, allowing him to create space in the paint or finish through contact. On defense, his length and agility allow him to guard multiple positions for stretches, though his primary value is in the paint as a disruptive presence and rebounder. He understands rotations and shows a willingness to communicate, which is impressive for his age. He’s not a flashy player, but he’s consistently productive, affecting the game on both ends with his fundamental soundness and high motor.
Strengths
What makes Smith special is his defensive versatility and mature offensive game. His length and lateral quickness allow him to switch onto guards on the perimeter, momentarily containing them before recovering to his preferred paint spot. He’s an exceptional rebounder on both ends, consistently fighting for position and converting offensive boards into second-chance points or resets. His touch around the rim is soft, utilizing both hands effectively, and he has a developing mid-range jumper that extends defenses. Coaches see a player who can anchor a defense, run the floor, and be a reliable offensive option in multiple sets.
Areas to Watch
To truly unlock his next level, Smith needs to refine his ball-handling against pressure and continue to extend his shooting range with consistency. Developing a more explosive first step from the perimeter would open up even more driving lanes for him. Adding more functional strength will also be crucial for battling more physical opponents at the college level and finishing more consistently through contact.
Player Comparison
Smith's game brings to mind a younger Paul Millsap. Millsap was always a high-IQ, versatile forward who could rebound, defend multiple positions, and score efficiently without needing a high volume of shots. Smith has that same cerebral approach, the knack for defensive plays, and an emerging offensive arsenal that suggests a similar trajectory of becoming a highly effective, multifaceted frontcourt player who makes those around him better.
Recruitment
Chase Smith, currently ranked #71 nationally in the 2028 class, has already garnered significant attention, holding 15 D1 offers. Programs like Arizona State, Auburn, Cal, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Mississippi State, UCF, and Charlotte are all in the mix, indicating a broad appeal across various conferences. Given his current trajectory and early offers, his recruitment will only intensify over the next few years. A commitment isn't expected anytime soon, as he'll likely take his time evaluating programs that can best develop his unique skill set and provide the right fit for his collegiate career. Power conference programs are going to stay persistent in their pursuit.
Projection
Chase Smith projects as a high-major starter or key rotation player who can contribute immediately through his rebounding and defensive presence. His offensive game is refined enough to be a consistent scorer, especially as he fills out and extends his range. He has the potential to be a multi-year college contributor, possibly anchoring a defense and providing reliable scoring. An honest assessment of his pro trajectory suggests a professional career, likely overseas, with a small possibility of an NBA G-League or deeper NBA roster spot if his offensive game truly blossoms.
Updated Sep 13, 2026 · Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Career Journey
Queen's Grant Academy
PREP SCHOOL
Team CP3
AAU
Career Highlights
THANK YOU @TerrapinHoops for an amazing game and unofficial visit! The game, the campus, the vibe.....I had a great experience overall!
2028 6'8 Chase Smith (Queens Grant) stayed productive with his interior presence and feel for the game. Made smart reads out of the post, finished through contact, and consistently impacted the glass. High-IQ forward who finds ways to produce.
Blessed to receive an offer from the University of Mississippi.
Offers
15
Arizona State
Auburn
Cal
Georgia
Georgia TechOffers sourced from 247Sports and social media monitoring.
Social Activity
FINAL DAY 2 GAME 5 #PhenomMikeGminski presented by Sana Recovery Queens Grant 67 Bobby Montgomery 18p 3r 4a 1s (6 3s) Mekhi Allen (MVP) 17p 4r 3a 3s @Mj35Allen Chase Smith 13p 8r 2a 2b 1s Cannon DeBerry 8p 2r 1b West Charlotte 61 AC Pressley 20p 2r 1a 1s Kaharri Coleman 13p 3r https://t.co/zA2j4on1t1
Queens Grant vs. West Charlotte highlights. Tough game but we came home with the W. https://t.co/XHlDge6Iin
6’8 ‘28 Chase Smith (Queens Grant) is utilizing his size to create advantages around the basket. Possesses the skill and strength to score from the block or space the floor. Quality rebounder. Finishes well through contact and above the rim #PhenomMikeGminski https://t.co/BjQ64a4T63
FINAL Day 3 Game 4 #PhenomMikeGminski presented by Sana Recovery Queens Grant 61 Chase Smith (MVP) 20p 10r 1s Bobby Montgomery 10p 1r 2a 1s Mekhi Allen 8p 7r 1a Lancaster 38 Ni'Quan White 6p 5r Jaden Hayden-Barber 5p 5r #PhenomHoops https://t.co/Ku8WIoLVyz
Phenom Mike Gminski Standouts: Impact Performances Across the Event ( part 2 ) 🔗 - https://t.co/1GGShzuMdo https://t.co/SmDQ60z5eO