Smith says ‘anchors aweigh’
Fred Jeter | 12/14/2023, 6 p.m.
Basketball standout Kyah Smith has proven to be in ship-shape as a college freshman.
The native Richmonder and former L.C. Bird High of Chesterfield star is making waves at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.
The 5-foot-9 starting guard is averaging 11 points, five rebounds and four assists after her first nine games for the Midshipmen wearing jersey No. 2 in Navy blue and gold.
That included scoring highs of 20 against Quinnipiac, 19 against Binghampton and 15 against Mount St. Mary’s.
“Kyah is a dynamic and creative guard,” said Navy Coach Tim Taylor. “She is at her best breaking down defenses and being a playmaker.”
The daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Smith and Amber Harris arrived at the Maryland campus with glowing credentials.
Under Coach Chevette Waller (former VCU standout), Smith earned Class 5 All-State honors while helping the Skyhawks to a 23-5 record and the state semifinals against Princess Anne.
She also was first-team All-State Academic and the Chesterfield County Public Schools Citizenship Award winner.
Navy competes in the Division I Patriot league and has made three appearances in the NCAA tournament.
