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Letter of Intent
Putnam Science Academy basketball standout signs a National Letter of Intent to attend Dayton University, where he will play for Flyers Coach Archie Miller. Looking on are, left to right: Coach Tom Espinosa, Principal Dr. Emrullah Durmaz, College Counselor Celal Aydar, Academic Dean Serdar Haytiyes and members of the Mustangs basketball team. Courtesy photo.
By Ron P. Coderre
The Putnam Science Academy basketball program, entering its sixth year of varsity competition, is sending one of its players off to a big time NCAA Division I program. Dayshon Smith officially signed his National Letter of Intent to play for the University of Dayton Flyers. The signing took place in front of a packed gymnasium just prior to the start of Mustang Madness Nov. 15.
Smith, who hails from the Bronx, is in his second year as a student/athlete at PSA. Academically he’s more than qualified by NCAA standards with satisfactory SAT scores. His skills on the basketball court speak for themselves. Last season he led the Mustangs in steals and assist while still managing 15 points per game. He’s being look at as the leader of this year’s team as it embarks on the most rigorous schedule in the brief history of the program.
“I decided on Dayton because I thought it was the best fit for me academically and athletically. It’s a very good program with a strong history. Coach Archie Miller is a stand-up guy who I’m very comfortable with personally,” Smith said.
Last season Smith demonstrated raw basketball skills but over the summer his stock rose substantially playing with his AAU team the New York Lightning. The 6-foot, 2-inch Smith, affectionately referred to as “Scoochie” by his friends and teammates, possesses great ball handling and passing skills. He sees the action on the court extremely well, making him an offensive threat passing or shooting the basketball.
“Coming to Putnam Science Academy has helped me grow as a player and as an individual. The college style living has made me understand the responsibility that will be expected of me in college,” said Smith.
By all indications, Smith is well like and respected by his fellow students, teachers and the school administration.
“We’re very proud of what Dayshon has achieved. He’s a polite young man who has a strong sense of responsibility. He works hard in the classroom, making him an inspiration to other students,” said Dr. Emrullah Durmaz, school principal.
Dr. Durmaz’ words are echoed by Smith’s coach Tom Espinosa. “I’m happy for Dayshon and his family. He’s made our school very proud and we’re looking forward to seeing him play in college. He’s a pleasure to coach,” said Espinosa.
Prior to moving on to his college career with the Atlantic-10 Conference Flyers, Smith and his teammates face a demanding and upgraded 30-game schedule. Despite the long road that’s ahead this year for the Scientists both Espinosa and Smith are anxious to get started.
“My goal is to lead this team to the Prep School National Tournament. My personal goal is to be in the running for the Gatorade Player of the Year Award,” said Smith.