In a substantial move rocking up the NCAA women’s basketball landscape, former LSU forward Sa’Myah Smith has committed to the University of Virginia. This transfer indicates a new beginning for Smith, who brings her defensive strength and tenacity to the Cavaliers.
Sa’Myah Smith Transfers to Virginia: A Game-Changer for Cavaliers
Announcing her transfer on X/Twitter, Smith shared a heartfelt message:
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
Psalm 27:3🙏🏽5️⃣#woohoonation🧡💙
“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow”. pic.twitter.com/r4iuBllBs1
— Sa’Myah Smith (@samyahsmith5) April 14, 2025
Smith, who appeared in all 36 games and was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team two years ago when the Tigers won the national championship, joins UVA with two years of eligibility remaining.
A 6’2″ forward from Texarkana, Texas, Smith was a highly touted prospect who attended DeSoto High School, where she won successive state championships in her junior and senior seasons.
As a freshman at LSU, Smith played all 36 games, averaging 4.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks in 14.7 minutes per game to help the Tigers win their first-ever national title, receiving All-SEC Freshman Team honors along the way.
Smith’s decision to transfer comes after a difficult season at LSU, during which she suffered a ruptured ACL, MCL, and meniscus in her right knee during a game against Niagara in November 2023.
Despite the setback, she posted remarkable results in 2023-24, averaging 11.7 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game while shooting 66% from the field. She took a medical redshirt to save the year of eligibility.
Smith entered the transfer portal on April 3rd and will now transfer to Virginia, where she will have two years of eligibility left. This is a crucial addition for Coach Mox and the Cavaliers.
Also Read: Zania Socka-Nguemen Transfer Portal: Top 5 Landing Spots for UCLA Freshman
Smith’s presence in the paint is expected to significantly boost Virginia’s defense. Her ability to manage the boards and protect the rim will be key as the Cavaliers strive to move up the ACC rankings.
As Smith begins her new journey with Virginia, fans, and experts will be looking to see how her experience and persistence contribute to the team’s success in the next season.
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