The two-round 2024 NBA Draft began on Wednesday with the first 30 picks. Among the hopefuls waiting for the call on Thursday is a Hawaii high school graduate.
Six years after a standout senior season at Kahuku High School, where he was named state player of the year, Tolu Smith is on the cusp of a professional career.
Smith, who starred at Mississippi State and earned All-SEC First Team honors, averaged 15 points and 8 rebounds per game. The 6-foot-11 forward recently completed team workouts and interviews and is considered a Day 2 or free agent prospect.
"It's tough, obviously, trying not to think about it. I think I do more praying and more hoping at this point," Smith said. "It's just a blessing to be in this position. At the end of the day, not a lot of people get the opportunity or get the chance to work out for a lot of teams. I think I let the work show for itself. Whether it's getting drafted, whether it's a two-way, at the end of the day it's just a blessing to be here."
Regardless of how it happens, Smith is confident he'll get the opportunity into an NBA training camp which provides a shot at becoming the first prep alum from the islands to reach an NBA regular-season roster since Hilo’s Red Rocha, who had a 10-year career ending in 1957.
Smith added, "I just need a way in. The way I see it, once I'm in, I'm in. I think the biggest part for me, I think, is going to stay in so I'll put the work in."
Expressing his gratitude, Smith said, "I have a lot of love for Hawaii. A lot of love from Hawaii is shown to me. It's another blessing being able to be a role model for guys that maybe feel like they can't make it or it's hard, or maybe it's not looking clear at times. I just want to be that role model for guys that it is possible. You just got to put the work in."
The final 28 picks of the draft will be made on Thursday.
One player of particular interest to the islands was selected in Round 1: Devin Carter of Providence, the son of UH legend A.C. Carter, was taken 13th by the Kings.