Buffalo Bulls Women's Basketball Preview: Junior guard Joanna Smith

After lighting it up in practice all last season, Smith found her groove very late, and seems to have carried it into this season as Buffalo's top shooter.

The Basics

Number: 4
Year: Junior
Position: Guard
Hometown: Southaven, MS
Height: 5-8

New Girl?

No.

UB Career

Joanna made regular appearances off the bench from Day One, and moved into a starter's role after ten games last year. Over her freshman season she doubled her time on the floor and tripled her scoring totals while showing a willingness to fight down low for rebounds.

Smith exploded over the final stretch last year, scoring 20 in a Senior Day win over Akron and averaged 15.6 points over UB's final six games as the team surged into a MAC Tournament bye, the conference semifinal, and the program.

Further Reading and Viewing:

Smith again scores 15 in regular season finale

Smith leads Bulls in needed, but ugly, win over Bowling Green

Career-highs from Smith, Reid push Bulls to first win over Akron in 11 tries

2015-16 Outlook

If it wasn't clear before UB's pair of exhibitions, it's clear now: Smith's maintained the confidence and scoring touch from her late-season run last year, and the Bulls desperately need it. She's hit just short of half of Buffalo's threes on the season and at 35 points in 42 minutes was second only to Brittany Morrison in offensive production. She's a willing rebounder and one of few Bulls who thrive in transition. Expect her to play a big role in UB's season.