The Charlotte Hornets added to their 2023 NBA Draft haul with the 27th overall selection of Arkansas guard Nick Smith Jr. on Thursday. 

Smith joins second overall pick, forward Brandon Miller, as part of this year’s draft class. The 19-year-old guard will compete for playing time behind the starting backcourt of LaMelo Ball and Terry Rozier as a rookie.

“I’m coming in with a big chip, for sure,” Smith said after his selection. “I also understand this game is a business and Charlotte was willing to take a chance on me. My trust is in Charlotte right now.” During his college career, the Jacksonville, Arkansas, native averaged 12.5 points, 1.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game during his lone season with the Razorbacks.
