CARMELO SMITH

Built for the Next Level

MEET CARMELO

Carmelo Smith is part of the next wave coming through Wyoming Premier Hoops. Known for his athleticism, energy, and aggressive approach, he continues to build his game while competing with the 16U program.

Team: 16U
Style: Athletic
Dream School: North Carolina
Series: Episode 01

WHO HE IS

How would you describe your game to someone who has never watched you play?

Intense and full gas. I want to be going 100 percent every play on the floor, attacking and competing no matter what type of game it is.

When did basketball become serious for you?

Sixth grade, after playing the game more and it becoming more competitive.

What do you want people to notice when they watch you compete?

The hard work I put in to be the best I can be, what I am capable of doing for my team, being an all-around addition to my teammates, and the will to win.

THE WORK

What part of your game have you improved the most?

Defense and leadership, along with the mental side of how I play.

What part still needs the most work?

Decision-making, taking the right shot, having better shot selection, reading what the defense is giving me, and finding more ways to attack or get my teammates involved.

How do you respond when a game is not going your way?

Pick up my pace, play harder, and bring more energy to the game.

THE PACK

What does playing for Wyoming Premier Hoops mean to you?

It is a chance to play with some of the best players in Wyoming and to travel, compete, and play teams from around the region. It means everything because it started with my brothers, and I want to keep building the Wyoming Premier Hoops name with my teammates.

What makes a good teammate and leader?

Getting to know your teammates as people off the court and on the court. Effort is a big deal. I try to show high effort and help create chemistry throughout the team.

Who has had the biggest influence on your development?

My whole family has played a big part. It is a basketball family and everybody plays or has played. All of my coaches so far have also had an impact on me as a player.

WHAT’S NEXT

What are your goals for the 2027 season?

Learn to play with more pace and understand that everything does not have to be at 100 speed. I want to keep adding to my game, become better in the half court, and be just as effective there as I am in transition.

What level do you ultimately want to reach?

The NBA is the ultimate goal, but I want to enjoy these next few years, grow in high school, keep playing with Wyoming Premier Hoops, and find a college that can help me keep moving toward that goal.

What would you tell younger Wyoming players who want to improve?

Do not give up on the sport you love. Stay confident and do not let people tell you that you cannot do it. Put the work in, including when nobody is watching.

TPSN DATA BOARD 00:24

OFF THE CLOCK

QUICK HITTERS

Favorite Players: Kobe Bryant · Ja Morant · Anthony Edwards
Pregame Music: Lil Baby
Dream College: University of North Carolina
Toughest Player Guarded: Malachi Smith
One Word for His Game: Athletic
Best Basketball Memory: Winning the championship at the Native American Junior Nationals
Teammates Most Likely to Make Everyone Laugh: David or Colten