Colorado hoops has risen in recent years and the current upswing looks to continue. The 2016, 2017, and 2018 classes could produce record numbers of Division I recruits and the depth of talent beyond D-I level prospects has increased.
While the latest group is extremely promising, it is time to give credit to those who played high school hoops in Colorado and are still competing at some level to this day. They've helped set the stage for the ongoing success of Centennial State basketball.
Without further ado, here's Prep Hoops Colorado's third Where Are They Now article in an ongoing series.
Jason Smith: Smith, a 7-footer from Platte Valley High School in Kersey, had an excellent career for Colorado State before getting drafted by the Miami Heat in the first round in 2007. He’s enjoying a lengthy NBA career, averaging 6.4 points and 3.6 rebounds in 17.7 minutes per game and signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the Orlando Magic in July. Smith is one of the most successful players ever from the Centennial State.
Xavier Talton: Another small-town kid, Talton led Sterling to 27 wins and the 4A state championship as a junior before signing with the Colorado Buffs. The guard, a soon-to-be senior, has averaged over 20 minutes per game the past two seasons, but seemed to struggle with confidence this past season. Nonetheless, he’s been a good player for CU and will look to cap his final campaign in style.
Ronnie Harrell: A top-100 recruit in the 2014 class by ESPN, the small forward from Denver East redshirted as a Creighton freshman to develop his body further. His size of around 6-foot-8 with a huge wingspan, but with guard skills, should get him onto the court plenty this season. Harrell has shown tremendous all-around improvement the last couple of years and has great upside.
Canyon Barry: The fifth son of NBA legend Rick Barry to play Division I hoops, Canyon was productive as a sophomore at College of Charleston while averaging 12.5 points and 5.1 rebounds. The 6-foot-6 guard, a Cheyenne Mountain grad, was the team’s leading scorer a season ago and is known for adopting his father’s underhand style at the free throw line.
Cory Calvert: The Denver Post’s 2012 Class 5A basketball player of the year for Chaparral as a senior, Calvert and Josh Adams led the Wolverines to the state crown. Calvert played his freshman season at BYU before embarking on a two-year mission trip. He’s back, shaking off his rust, and is ready to go.
