Local Star DeShawn Harris-Smith Heads to Maryland with Big Goals

DeShawn-Harris Smith, a highly talented incoming freshman for the Maryland men’s basketball team, is quickly making a name for himself. His recent invitation to Team USA’s Under-19 Men’s National Team Training Camp is a testament to his skills and potential. 

Hailing from Fairfax, Virginia, Harris-Smith had numerous offers from respected schools such as Penn State, Xavier, Villanova, and Indiana. However, he made the decision to stay close to home and play for Maryland, demonstrating his dedication to the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area.

During his time at Paul VI High School in Chantilly, Virginia, Harris-Smith showcased his exceptional abilities, averaging an impressive 17.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 2.6 steals per game. His outstanding performance earned him accolades, including the Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year, WCAC Player of the Year, and Naismith High School All-American.

Paul IV plays in the highly competitive Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC). Conference alumni in the NBA include Markelle Fultz and Victor Oladipo. Harris-Smith thinks playing in WCAC has prepared him for higher levels of basketball.

“Everyone comes out and plays like it’s a championship game,” Harris-Smith said. "They play like it’s the last game they’re going to play. That’s why I feel like we can compete at the next level because we just get out there and play as hard as we can.”

Looking ahead, Harris-Smith has lofty aspirations for his basketball career. He aims to leave a lasting legacy at Paul VI High School as a leader and a winner, both on and off the court: “I definitely want to lift my mom, my teammates, etc., who have put the time and effort into helping me become the type of player that I am. I owe it to them to go out there and play my hardest to get the win.”

Joining the No. 13 basketball recruiting class in the nation (according to Rivals.com), Harris-Smith embraces the pressure associated with filling big shoes. He is excited about the opportunity to represent the DMV area and have the support of local fans.

“All the guys that are coming from the DMV—we’re happy to represent from the area and have the fans behind us,” he said. "Being able to stay home with people that have supported me my entire life is just an amazing opportunity.”

As Harris-Smith prepares for the next phase of his basketball journey, he remains focused on hard work, attending camps, and improving his skills. He acknowledges that there will be ups and downs, as is the case for every player, but he is determined to make a significant impact in his freshman season and throughout his playing career. 

The college basketball world eagerly awaits the continued progress and success of DeShawn Harris-Smith.