Randell “RL” Smith Jr. of Haynesville, Louisiana has committed to play basketball for the Barclay College Bears in 2016-17. The Bears will look for the 6’8″ Smith to fill a huge void in the middle of the paint following the graduation of senior Charles Brodhead (Lompoc, Calif.), who was the Bears biggest interior presence.

Smith graduated from Haynesville High School in 2011  and has been working as a diesel mechanic sinse graduation. In addition to playing basketball in high school, he also played receiver and safety for the Tornado football team. His 2009 team even took home the 1A state championship.

“We are thrilled that RL has decided to pursue higher education after some time away from school,” said head coach Royce Bryan. “He has a huge upside on the basketball court. He moves really well for his size and he will be a fantastic addition to the student body and community of Haviland as well.”

Smith loves getting to know people and is passionate about Jesus Christ. He has been on several mission trips over the past couple of years and he has a real heart for leading people to know Christ. This is one of the reasons why he plans on majoring in Elementary Education while at Barclay.

Smith is the son of Randell and Reneee Smith. He has three sisters: Felicia, Robin and Ashley.