Ricky Lindo Jr 2nd from left, Sticks Smith back center
College Park, MD, Wayne Viener – I think it was the fall of 1993, after a football game there was a basketball scrimmage.
In a few minutes of watching, one player stood out. Tall, skinny and unknown. Who in the world was #32? Joe who? Never heard of him. Gary found himself something special.
In short, Joe Smith was outstanding and spectacular. The best unknown ball player I ever saw. For Maryland, he was “the natural”.
25 years later, I walked into media day and onto Gary Williams Court. Of course, no one could be Joe Smith again, it can only happen once.
However, there is a kid that made me think back… Who is #14? He can fly!? Its’ like a new and improved Xree Hipp. A more athletic LaRon Profit. Who is he – he is Ricky Lindo Jr.
A 6-7 frosh from DC who could have reclassed to be a 2019 enrollee. Instead, here he is, a living breathing Terp and a difference maker. He has flown under the radar, but I expect big things from #14.
In this season of freshman riches, the kid that really makes you go “Wow!” and think one and done, is Jalen “Sticks” Smith. He rocks the #25 jersey for Maryland. Sticks is already a big-time ball player. He has been on the national radar for years. I saw him play in high school at Mt St Joes in Baltimore. For three years he had Daryl Morsell as a teammate. Over the summer, he put on some serious muscle. Jalen looks the part of a college star.
Sticks will have to have an impactful season for Maryland to matter in the B1G and on the national scene. He is capable.
There are more freshman to review, some sophomores and a particular Might Mouse sized point guard as well. We will get to them in later posts.
For tonight, take a look at these two freshman, Ricky and Sticks. See if they remind you of much better days in College Park.