After watching Smith at the Grinnell Invitational early in the 2027 season, I think we might have her rated too low here at Prep Dig Iowa. Against heavy attacks, the senior stood strong and gave her team chances to prosper in system. With the Tigers’ setting and attackers, it gave them chance to compete with everybody in the event. Smith is a smart student-athlete that learns from the opponent’s tendencies and improves as the match advances as a result. She moves well laterally and covers a lot of court. Smith is a team leader that does well in communicating and keeping Grinnell rowing the same direction.

Smith stood out to me when I watched the Tigers compete at the Benton tournament last and appeared to have advanced her game even more during Iowa City West’s Live Like Line tournament in early September of her junior season. Smith boasts a strong feel for the back row with instincts and reactions that keep her in plays. She moves well laterally and gets a clear read on the ball. Smith understands the importance of communication in her position and does a strong job helping make sure the Tigers are on the same page. She’s a prospect with the arrow pointing up.