Javonte Smart bypassing NBA Draft is huge boost for LSU basketball

Starting guard Javonte Smart announced via Twitter Monday that he will return to LSU basketball.

LSU guard Javonte Smart tweeted that he will return to the basketball program in 2020 rather than testing the NBA waters, a boon for head coach Will Wade and a Tigers team which figures to be in contention for the SEC crown.

Smart shared the news on Monday afternoon, sparking excitement from LSU fans. The guard started all but one game as a sophomore, ranking fourth on the team in points per game and first in assists per game, per ESPN.

With leading scorer Skylar Mays gone, Smart will be expected to shoulder more of the scoring load for the Tigers and to put them back in contention for an NCAA Championship after the 2020 tournament was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Smart improved in most major statistical categories as a sophomore, and another year in college could help him increase his NBA stock after withdrawing from the draft. He clearly felt the need to improve his standing before entering the draft for good, but his return bodes well for Wade and an ascendant LSU program.

According to Billy Embody, the LSU beat writer for 247Sports, fellow starter Trendon Watford will return along with Smart, potentially putting the Tigers on the shortlist of SEC contenders.

Having Smart back at point guard is great for LSU. Ready to take on a bigger role, he should post even better numbers than his 12.5 points and 4.2 assists per game from a year ago.

Especially in 2020, roster stability will be key, and relying on unproven freshmen amid the coronavirus pandemic could spell disaster. With at least one veteran leader returning for another year, Will Wade’s program should be in good hands.

For more NCAA basketball news, analysis, opinion and features, check out more from the FanSided college basketball section to stay on top of the latest action.