“Sean has tremendous speed and we are really excited about the way he gets up-and-down the floor,” Smart said on signing day. “He can guard 94 feet and he loves to push the ball, attack and create baskets for his teammates.”

Chase Ross (6-foot-4, 185), wing

Smart is clearly targeting defense and athleticism on the recruiting trail. Chase Ross, left-handed shooter, flew under the radar, but started to really get noticed late in the recruiting process. Ross is looked at as a two-way wing who can really guard. He is athletic and can shoot the ball. He could be a real gem for Smart and Marquette.

Ross had offers from programs including Texas A&M, Georgia, Penn State, West Virginia and Virginia Tech.

“Chase is a tremendous athlete who can really shoot it,” Smart said.  “Marquette fans are going to love his versatility, ability to guard multiple positions, get in the paint and play above the rim.”

Ben Gold (6-foot-10, 205), stretch 4

Gold is a tantalizing international prospect from New Zealand and the NBA Global Academy. He is 6-foot-10 but is a lethal threat from the outside. He chose Marquette over Washington State and Loyola-Chicago. Here is what Gold said about Marquette prior to his commitment.

“They have a new coaching staff up from Texas and I like the style of play,” he told Rivals in January. “They play up-tempo and shoot, which is how I want to play.”

Transfer

Zach Wrightsil (6-foot-7, 205), wing

Well this is about the 2022 incoming freshmen, Smart also nabbed slashing wing and NAIA Player of the Year Zach Wrightsil from Loyola University of New Orleans. Wrightsil will have one year of eligibility remaining at Marquette.

Wrightsil led Loyola to the NAIA National Championship and earned National POY honors after he averaged 18.7 points, 8.8 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 2.1 steals per game.

Following Wrightsil’s commitment in mid-April, Smart said: “I’m extremely excited about Zach joining our program. “He is a flat-out winner who possesses tremendous humility and poise.  As we continue to build our program culturally, Zach will provide leadership and maturity.

“On the court, Zach’s versatility and ability to play with violence will be a welcomed addition to our team."