Richard Bland Names Robert Smith Athlete of the Week

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, Va. -- Richard Bland College sophomore men's basketball standout Robert Smith/Hampton has been named the Athletics Department's Athlete of the Week for the period October 30-November 5.  The 6-4, 225-pound guard led the preseason nationally-ranked No. 2 Statesmen (2-0) to a pair of season-opening wins, including a 93-83 home win past Clinton (S.C.) on Nov. 1 and an 85-63 road win at CCBC Dundalk (Md.) on Nov. 4.

Smith began the campaign with his first collegiate double-double, posting career-highs of 26 points and 12 rebounds, adding two assists against the Golden Bears.  He followed that effort with a game-high 22 points, adding five rebounds and one block against the Lions.

Smith has started both early games this season, averaging a team-best 24.0 points, along with 8.5 rebounds, 1.0 assists and 25.5 minutes, while shooting 50% (19-38) from the field, including three-point field goals (4-8).

Please see below for a brief Q&A on his Athlete of the Week selection.  Athletes of the Week are chosen by members of the Richard Bland Athletics Department. 

Q: How does it feel to be named Richard Bland Athlete of the Week?
RS: It makes me feel like I have improved and that others have noticed it. 

Q: How did you get started in your sport and how long have you played?
RS: I started playing in my community when I was nine years old, and a lot of local kids and I began playing on the same AAU team. 

Q: What do you like most about your team?
RS: Our personalities complement each other well. 

Q: Who is your funniest teammate/why?
RS: Brandon Henry.  He does the best impressions. 

Q: Do you have any pregame rituals/superstitions?
RS: I like to listen to Meek Mill before each game. 

Q: What is your favorite place on campus/why?
RS: My room in the residence hall. 

Q: What is your favorite class/professor/why?
RS: Spanish with Rachel Finney, Associate Professor of Spanish.  She's a great instructor.