Alabama grad transfer Galin Smith commits to Maryland men’s basketball

Maryland men’s basketball secured a 2020 frontcourt transfer as Alabama forward Galin Smith announced his commitment to the Terps Tuesday.

The 6’9, 240-pound Smith provides depth in the Maryland frontcourt that lost three players this offseason.

“I’m really excited and grateful for the opportunity Coach Turgeon has given me to come and make an impact on a team as great as Maryland,” Smith said in a press release. “The plan he has laid out for me on and off the court is going to help both me and the team have success.

“Maryland fans can expect to see hunger, passion and effort from me every time I step foot on the court. I’ll bring a positive influence and will represent the campus and community well. I can’t wait to experience the atmosphere at Maryland I’ve heard so much about.”

In his junior season at Alabama, Smith averaged 3.1 points and 2.5 rebounds in 13.1 minutes per game. He shot 55.7 percent from the field and 42.2 percent from the free-throw line.

As a part of the 2017 recruiting class, Smith was the No. 29 center and No. 274 player overall, according to the 247Sports Composite.

With just Marial and rising-sophomore Donta Scott currently holding up the frontcourt, Smith brings in a big, bruising body built for play in the paint. Having someone of his size and build will allow others to play more all-around roles rather than being forced to play inside.

“Galin is exactly what we were looking for in a veteran 5-man with great strength and size,” head coach Mark Turgeon said in a press release. “He is an experienced post player who will help us right away. He can score and defend effectively in the low post and has the ability to get out on the break. Most importantly, Galin fits our program’s culture in terms of work ethic and personality.”

The Terps also added transfer Jairus Hamilton to program this offseason from Boston College, but the 6’8 forward will have to obtain a waiver in order to be eligible for the 2020-21 season.

With the addition of Smith, Turgeon and his staff have two scholarships remaining for the 2020-21 season if Hamilton does not get approved.