Two Flyers Head to Transfer Portal

(Photo via David Jablonski/Staff at Dayton Daily News)

TJ Thompson | Sports Editor

            Junior guard Malachi Smith and junior big man Isaac Jack both entered their names into the transfer portal Monday according to social media posts.

            Smith, who had struggled with injuries over the past few seasons, played in 33 games and started 31 this season, averaging a career-high 10.4 points and 5.3 assists per game. After playing in 33 games last season, Jack had only appeared in 21 games this season averaging 3.2 points and two rebounds, most likely being moved down the depth chart with the acquisition of Zed Key last offseason and the instant production of freshman Amaël L’Etang.

            Smith posted along with @recruitsnews on Instagram to break the news, “BREAKING: Dayton starter Malachi Smith has entered the transfer portal, per @dushawn_london.” Dayton is bringing in freshman guard, Jaron McKie, next season, which could be a reason why the Bronx, New York native is deciding to look elsewhere.

            Jack’s news was broken by many social media accounts that track players entering the portal. The Port Alberni, B.C. native played one season at Buffalo, where he averaged 5.6 points and 4.2 rebounds in 31 games played before transferring to Dayton. The Flyers are also set to bring in a young big man next season, 6-foot-9 Damon Friery from Cleveland, Ohio.

            Smith and Jack took very little time to make their decision as the portal opened up on Monday. Jack’s news broke just a few hours after Smith’s. The portal does not close until Tuesday, April 22, so expect more Flyers to throw their name in the hat and expect coach Grant and his staff to start making some moves themselves