SPOKANE, Wash. – Gonzaga senior Malachi Smith submitted his papers for early entry to the 2023 NBA Draft.
 
"I first want to give glory to God and thank him for blessing me with the ability to play this game at such a high level," Smith said. "Every moment this season has been a blessing and I am grateful for the memories I have made that I will never forget. To my teammates and coaches thank you for welcoming me into the Zag family from day one and pushing me every day. To my family and support system, I want to thank you for all the countless prayers and continuing to stand by me every step of the way. I am grateful for the journey because it has prepared me for this moment. With that said I will be declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft."
 
Smith was named the West Coast Conference Sixth Man of the Year, appearing in all 37 games for the Bulldogs this past season. He's played 132 games in his collegiate career.
 
After transferring from Chattanooga, Smith was the Bulldogs' fifth leading scorer in 2022-23 averaging 8.7 points per game. The redshirt junior has made 45 three-pointers at 50 percent from behind-the-arc, which ranked second in the conference. He was sixth in the league shooting 55.6 percent from the field during conference play, including 50 percent from three-point range. Smith has scored 1,626 points in his career, with 692 rebounds, 299 assists and 160 steals.
 
As in years past, players can submit paperwork to receive evaluations from the NBA. Smith plans to utilize the current rules in place, and has until May 31 at 8:59 p.m. PT, to make a final decision as to whether he wishes to remain in the draft or return to Gonzaga.
 
Smith helped guide Gonzaga to its eighth straight Sweet 16 and a 31-6 record. The Zags won the West Coast Conference regular season title for the 11th straight season, and WCC Tournament title for the fourth straight time.