In a standout performance during the Ohio Division I Region 2 regional semifinals, **Alex Smith**, a 2026 Ohio State commit, showcased his growth and versatility despite **Upper Arlington’s** 58-39 loss to **Olentangy Liberty** on March 6. The 6-foot-9 junior scored 29 points, displaying his ability to shoot from the perimeter and finish at the rim, all while under the watchful eyes of Ohio State coach **Jake Diebler** and assistant **Luke Simons**.
Smith opened the game with a quick jumper and followed it up with a driving layup, setting the tone for his dominant night. He scored his team’s first seven points and finished the first half with 15 of Upper Arlington’s 18 points, keeping the Golden Bears competitive against a Liberty squad that had swept them during the regular season.
“I tried to help my teammates get involved early,” Smith said. “They gave me opportunities to score, and I took advantage of the lanes they gave me, especially in the first half and fourth quarter.”
Smith’s ability to drive through traffic, draw fouls, and finish through contact was on full display. He also showed his hustle by grabbing a defensive rebound and converting it into a fast-break layup. Upper Arlington coach **Tim Bills** praised Smith’s development, noting his improved strength and control when attacking the basket.
“He’s tremendously better at driving through traffic and finishing against stronger players this year,” Bills said. “Last year, he had a phenomenal season, but his ability to score in those situations has certainly improved.”
Smith, a three-star prospect ranked No. 139 nationally by **247Sports.com**, committed to Ohio State after impressing at the Buckeyes’ team camp last June. He acknowledged the pressure of being a committed recruit but said he handled it well, focusing on playing his game.
“I think I handled it pretty well,” Smith said. “It’s a big spotlight, but I tried to stay focused and not let it affect me.”
Looking ahead, Smith plans to add muscle mass this offseason, aiming to increase his weight from 200 to 220 pounds to prepare for the physicality of Big Ten basketball. Bills believes Smith’s dedication to improvement will lead to even greater success in his senior year and beyond.
“He’s incredibly dedicated to his craft,” Bills said. “The best basketball for Alex Smith is definitely in front of him because he’s not afraid to evaluate his game, acknowledge where he needs to improve, and put in the work to get better.”
Smith’s performance against Liberty not only highlighted his individual growth but also solidified his potential as a future impact player for the Buckeyes.
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