Darin Smith Jr. of Central Connecticut State has been named to the All-ECAC First Team for 2026, marking a significant achievement in his basketball career. This season, he also earned the title of NEC Player of the Year, making him the seventh player from Central to receive this honor. As a sophomore, Smith led his conference in scoring average and free throw percentage, showcasing his strong offensive game and reliability at the line.

By the Numbers
  • Smith averaged 20.7 points per game and shot 89.8% from the free-throw line.
  • He scored 40 points in a single game, the highest for a Blue Devil since 2013.
  • With 621 total points this season, he ranks third in program history for a single season.
Yes, But

Despite Smith's accolades, the team will need to strengthen its overall performance to compete for higher championships, considering they've lost key games throughout the season.

State of Play
  • Smith, Jr. scored in double figures in 29 games this season.
  • He led the league in seven statistical categories, including scoring and free throw percentage.
What's Next

As Central Connecticut prepares for the next season, it will look to build on Smith鈥檚 success and develop strategies to improve team dynamics and overall performance in competitive play.

Bottom Line

Darin Smith Jr.'s recognition as an All-ECAC First Team member highlights his exceptional talent and contributions, posing as a beacon of hope for Central Connecticut's basketball future, but continuous improvement will be essential for team success.