Auburn's Jabari Smith considered a top-5 pick, may go No. 1

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Don’t judge Jabari Smith by his most recent game.

The 6-foot-10 freshman missed 13 of 15 shots in No. 1 Auburn’s one-point victory at Missouri on Tuesday night, but it was clearly just an off night for one of college basketball’s top newcomers.

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Smith finished with five points, 10 rebounds, two blocks and played stout defense on Missouri’s Kobe Brown. Despite a season-low in points –- he ended a streak of 16 games scoring in double figures -– Smith remains a consensus top-five projected pick in the upcoming NBA draft if he decides to turn pro. He has a legit chance to be the school’s highest selection in program history, ahead of Chuck Person (fourth in 1986) and Chris Morris (fourth in 1988).

"He’s a special talent," Florida coach Mike White said. "He’s 6-10 and he’s a two guard. He’s got a beautiful stroke. He’s efficient. Gets to his spots. He’s got an ability to raise up with a high release to separate a little bit in the air. Can kind of twist a little bit, go right, go left. He’s just advanced.

Auburn forward Jabari Smith (10) looks for an open shot as Kentucky forward Keion Brooks Jr. (12) and forward Oscar Tshiebwe (34) defends during the second half of an NCAA college basketball game Saturday, Jan. 22, 2022, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

"It seems like mentally he’s kind of a step ahead of where he should be at that age. He’s a really good player."

Smith, who turns 19 next month, has a fluidity to his game that’s impressive for his age and certainly appealing to scouts and general managers. He’s viewed as a matchup nightmare because of his ability to stretch a defense with