By Ron P. Coderre

The word about the quality of the Putnam Science Academy basketball program continues to spread throughout Connecticut, the Northeast and the country.  The results, more and more young men with a desire to play college basketball are either inquiring or showing up on coach Tom Espinosa’s doorstep.

As things were settling in for the 2015-2016-edition of the Mustangs, Espinosa received a surprise on Oct. 5 in the person of Kevin Jamal “KJ” Smith from Hamden.  Smith and his parents Jack and June Smith have been watching their son play basketball since the very tender age of 5.  Throughout his years his talents have grown in his favorite sport. Consequently, the 6-foot, 3-inch guard has decided to come to Putnam Science Academy as a member of the class of 2017.

Smith, a multi-sport athlete, is transferring from Hill Regional Career Magnet High School in New Haven.  As a player at Career, Smith has excelled under the leadership of coaches G.J. Wright and Larry Kelly.  During his three years at Career, Smith has grown steadily as a player becoming one of his team’s top hoopsters.

Career plays a schedule, which perennially faces the top schools in Connecticut such as Amity, Fairfield Prep, Wilbur Cross, Hill House, Naugatuck, Daniel Hand and Notre Dame.

“Smith has the talent to become a dominant player.  He is a kid who can score from three-point range and drive to the hoop.  He’s also an excellent free throw shooter.  We also like the fact that he’s very much of a team player,” said Espinosa of his newest recruit.

As Smith begins this new chapter in his life at Putnam Science Academy, he’s ready not only for the basketball court but also for the classroom.  He’s excels academically in math, English and science.  The family oriented young man is a determined and dedicated student and athlete.

Smith and the Putnam Science Academy Mustangs embark on a 38-game regular season schedule as an independent prep school on Nov. 17 when they entertain Spire Institute of Ohio in a 6:30 p.m. home contest.