Friends’ Central hoopster Raanee Smith commits to University of Colorado

Wynnewood – As Friends’ Central standout Raanee Smith signed her National Letter of Intent to play basketball at University of Colorado-Boulder Nov. 15 on the Shimada Athletic Center court in front of family and friends, she reflected back to when she first arrived at Friends’ Central and one thing came to mind – family.

“Both schools (Friends’ Central and the University of Colorado – Boulder) had a family atmosphere and being one with the community,” said Smith. “It’s just family. That was their main thing – family.”

While attending the Boo Williams AAU Tournament last summer, the University of Colorado – Boulder first showed their interest in Smith. Unsure of the intricacies of the recruiting process, the Buffaloes coaching staff planned a home visit.

“I didn’t really know what to expect,” said Smith, referring to the home visit. “I did not know schools did that. They really showed interest in me and it was the only home visit I would have.”

Without much knowledge about the state of Colorado and the school, Smith went on an official visit with eyes wide open.

“It was really nice especially with the mountains,” said Smith. “It looked like a photo. The people were nice, and the campus was nice.”

Considered a late bloomer to the game, Smith’s basketball career did not begin until she was in 7th grade. Despite the late start, it did not take the 6’2” center long to realize her passion for the game.

The summer before she was set to enter 9th grade, Smith joined the now defunct Philly Elite AAU program coached by Laney Brown. There, she was able to continue to work and hone her skills she had learned during her high school season.

Throughout her career at Friends’ Central Smith has played a pivotal role on her team’s three Friend’s Schools League playoff appearances to accompany the FSL championship in 2016.

“Raanee has meant so much to our program,” said head coach Phillip Annas. “She has grown each year as a player and a person on and off the court. She has been tremendous role model for our younger players.”

Smith plans to major in Computer Science and hopes to put that degree to good use and have a career in the FBI.