Former Chattanooga guard Malachi Smith commits to Gonzaga Bulldogs men's basketball team

Malachi Smith, the top available men's basketball transfer in the portal, has committed to the school.

Smith wanted to play for a Hall of Fame coach in Mark Few and be a part of a winning culture.

Smith had interest from almost every school in need of a guard since entering the transfer portal in late April, but he chose the Zags over the other schools.

Smith, the Southern Conference Player of the Year, was one of the best mid-major players in the country last season, and he was shooting 42% from 3-point range. Prior to withdrawing from the NCAA, he was testing the NBA draft waters and gathering feedback from teams about what he needs to work on in order to improve his professional standing.

They want me to demonstrate that I can be a versatile defender against NBA- caliber talent while also showing my offensive game as a point guard. I can compete at this level.

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Smith is joining a team that is expected to be the preseason No. 1 team in the country. Drew Timme, a preseason National Player of the Year candidate, and two other starting players from last year's NCAA tournament are also included.

Two key reserves from last season are returning, along with a transfer center.

Even if he won't be the focal point of the offense with so many talented players returning, Smith says being a part of a team with national championship ambitions was attractive.

He said that a lot of winning teams have good pieces. There are four or five guys on the Kansas team that could have been on another team. The Final Four team had several players that could play in the NBA. As long as we're winning games, everything will work out the way it should.

Smith brings a battle-tested, experienced guard known for his vocal leadership to the team.

He said that he has been in March Madness. I've led teams on tournament runs. Being a leader, using my voice and knowing where guys need to be is something I have experience with. My goal is to help elevate my game.