By Otis Kirk

FAYETTEVILLE -- To the surprise of no one, Nick Smith Jr. has declared for the 2023 NBA Draft.

Smith is leaving Arkansas after one season. He battled a knee injury much of the season. It limited him to 17 games. Smith averaged 25.8 minutes per game. In addition, Smith averaged 12.5 points, 1.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 0.8 steals per game. He shot 37.6 percent from the field, 74 at the charity stripe and 33.8 from 3-point range.

Smith announced his decision on social media Thursday morning. The former North Little Rock five-star recruit is projected as a lottery pick in the upcoming NBA Draft on June 22 in the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, N.Y.

ESPN has Smith projected to be picked No. 7. NBADraft.net has Smith being picked No. 6.

Photos Courtesy of Craven Whitlow CW3 Action Sports