Taft might not have Mrs. Smith but it has Mr. Smith

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Bryce Smith is one of the top, perhaps the best, pure shooter in the City Section these days. I’ve seen many opponents leave the senior from Taft alone outside the key, without a hand in his face, for a split second, and he’s made them pay for the mistake just about every time. It’s like clockwork.

The 6-foot-4 guard opened eyes on the national level at the City of Palms Classic in mid-December and followed up the effort with a good showing in the GSK Holiday Invitational a week later. Smith has been consistent ever since, averaging 13.5 points heading into Friday’s West Valley League game against Granada Hills.

‘Bryce opens up so many things for us because he can knock down shots from anywhere out on the floor,’’ said Coach Derrick Taylor, whose Toreadors are The Times’ top-ranked team. ‘You have to account for him at all times because he can fill it up. He’s matured and understands the game. He’s stepped into the big-boy world.’’

Apparently so. Schools from several mid-major conferences are recruiting him, including Jacksonville St., which has offered a scholarship. Gonzaga, Oregon and Pepperdine have also expressed interest and don’t be surprised to see others come calling if Smith continues his steady perimeter play.

-- Sean Ceglinsky