Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in
high school basketball. America's source for high school sports continues
the tradition to close out the 2020-21 season by naming the top player in
each state. Selections are based on team success and individual
excellence, in addition to local and state accolades.
Jabari Smith of
Sandy Creek (Tyrone)
is the 2020-21 MaxPreps Georgia High School Basketball Player of the
Year. The 6-foot-10, 210-pound senior helped the Patriots go 28-5 en route
to the Class AAA state championship game.
Smith averaged 23.4 points, 9.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 2.5 blocks per contest while
shooting 56 percent from the field. He finished with over 1,900 career points.
In Sandy Creek's 57-49 state championship loss to Cross Creek, Smith tallied 19 points, 17 rebounds and four blocks.
Signed with Auburn, Smith is regarded as the No. 5 prospect in the
Class of 2021 overall according to 247Sports. Alabama, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, North Carolina, Mississippi and Tennessee were among other college basketball programs to extend offers.
Each
state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in
the MaxPreps All-America Team, which is scheduled to be released April
13.
