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Arkansas’ Next Backcourt Duo Turns Heads on National Stage

Smith, Andrews showcase elite skill sets at McDonald's All-American Game
Jacob Davis|
JaShawn Andrews (23) celebrates during the McDonalds All American Boys Game at Desert Diamond Arena.
JaShawn Andrews (23) celebrates during the McDonalds All American Boys Game at Desert Diamond Arena. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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Arkansas Razorbacks

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Arkansas got an early glimpse of its next backcourt Tuesday night as Jordan Smith Jr. and JaShawn “JJ” Andrews delivered strong showings at the McDonald’s All-American Game.

Smith made his impact known early when he displayed his driving ability and quick first step that helps him create separation to finish with his opposite hand. There was one lay-up in the first quarter where he switched directions to keep the rim between him and his defender trying to block a shot.

Those kinds of high-IQ plays are why he is ready-made to take the reins of coach John Calipari's offense Day 1. Smith led the East team in scoring with 15 points, six rebounds, four assists, two steals and three turnovers.

He made 6-of-12 attempts from the field, 2-of-6 from three, but struggled at the free throw line with a 1-of-5 mark.

Future Arkansas Razorbacks guard Jordan Smith, Jr
Jordan Smith Jr (23) during the McDonalds All American Boys Game at Desert Diamond Arena. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Andrews, a Little Rock native, had one of the more impressive outings of the night as he finished with 12 points, five rebounds, one steal, and a block. He made 4-of-9 attempts from the field, 1-of-3 from beyond the arc, and was a perfect 3-of-3 from the free throw line.

Andrews averaged 31 points, 17 rebounds, three assists and two steals per game as a senior at Little Rock Christian and his level of play translated to a solid showing against the best players in his class.

Smith is the Future

Smith’s performance in the All-American Game reinforced why he is viewed as one of the most college-ready guards in the 2026 class. His ability to impact the game on both ends stood out in a setting that traditionally leans heavily toward offense.

Defensively, he played with consistent energy and showed a willingness to pressure the ball, using his length and anticipation to disrupt passing lanes. That effort translated into multiple possessions where he forced uncomfortable decisions from opposing guards.

Offensively, Smith displayed his strength as a downhill attacker. He consistently beat defenders off the dribble and showed comfort finishing with either hand, particularly in traffic.

While Smith's perimeter shot remains a work in progress, he's not the only player who struggled with his jump shot as both teams combined to make only 18-of-70 three-point attempts. Smith did demonstrate confidence stepping into shots and did not hesitate when given space.

There were moments of inconsistency as a shooter, particularly from the free throw line, but his overall offensive approach remained under control despite three second half turnovers. The most noticeable thing about Smith is he allows the game to come to him, operating within the flow of a system.

What separates Smith from many other guards in his class is his blend of pace, control and decision-making. He doesn’t rely solely on athleticism, but instead plays with an advanced understanding of angles and timing that allows him to create for scoring opportunities for himself and others.

Those intangibles should allow him to translate quickly into a primary ball handler role at Arkansas, where his ability to manage possessions and apply pressure defensively will be critical.

Smooth, Steady Andrews

Andrews may not carry the same national ranking as he heads into college, but his performance suggested he firmly belongs in the conversation as one of the best in his class.

He showcased a complete offensive skillset that will translate well to the college game. He has proven on the EYBL circuit that he can score at all three levels and showed that once again on the national stage at the McDonald's All-American Game.

He was at his best when slashing to the lane while battling through contact to the rim. When he's given even a sliver of space on the court, he isn't afraid to take a pull up jumper with a smooth over-the-top release.

His confidence from deep will help him remain an efficient scorer and shooter once he makes it to campus this summer and should thrive in an Arkansas system that prides itself on shot selection and spacing in the halfcourt.

Defensively, Andrews was active on the glass, rotated well and used his physicality to hold his own against elite competition. His effort level remained consistent, which stood out in an environment where defensive intensity has been pretty lax.

Sometimes the McDonald's spotlight has shown to be too big for some players, but Andrews remained unfazed by the stage and instead made timely plays without forcing his production. That level of control, paired with his physical tools, gives him a strong foundation heading into the college game.

For Arkansas, Andrews projects as a versatile piece who can complement higher-usage guards such as Smith, but can still provide a scoring punch himself. If his shooting continues to develop and his defensive consistency holds, he has the potential to outperform his ranking and carve out a defined role with the Razorbacks next season.

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Jacob Davis
JACOB DAVIS

Jacob Davis is a reporter for Arkansas Razorbacks on SI, with a decade of experience covering high school and transfer portal recruiting. He has previously worked at Rivals, Saturday Down South, SB Nation and hosted podcasts with Bleav Podcast Network where his show was a finalist for podcast of the year. Native of El Dorado, he currently resides in Central Arkansas with his wife and daughter.

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