Former NBA Coach Keith Smart Takes Helm at Utah Prep Academy

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — Utah Prep Academy has named former NBA head coach Keith Smart as its new head basketball coach, the school announced Tuesday. Smart, who has coached the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors, and Sacramento Kings, will lead a program that includes top recruits AJ Dybantsa and Xavion Staton, both BYU signees.

Smart, 60, most recently served as an assistant coach at the University of Arkansas under Eric Musselman. In a written statement, Smart expressed his enthusiasm for the new role. “I’m honored to join Utah Prep Academy,” he said. “This is a program that has grown to unprecedented prominence in such a short period of time. I’m excited to build on the great work that’s already been done and help these young men achieve their goals both on and off the court.”

AJ Dybantsa, the nation’s top-ranked recruit in the 2025 class, praised the hiring. “Keith Smart is a game-changer,” Dybantsa said. “Having someone with his experience and knowledge is incredible. I’m excited to learn from him and grow as a player and a person. This is going to be a special season.”

Smart brings a wealth of experience to the high school program. As a player, he famously hit the game-winning shot for Indiana in the 1987 NCAA Championship against Syracuse. His NBA coaching career includes a 93-170 record, with notable stints coaching players like former BYU star Jimmer Fredette during his time with the Kings.

Utah Prep’s former head coach, Justin Yamzon, stepped down last week, as announced in an Instagram post. Yamzon, a former BYU-Hawaii player, had been instrumental in building the program’s national reputation.

The academy is set to face Montverde Academy, one of the nation’s top high school basketball programs, in a nationally televised game on ESPN2 this Sunday. The matchup will provide an early test for Smart and his new team.

Utah Prep Academy, located in Hurricane, Utah, has quickly become a powerhouse in high school basketball, attracting top talent from across the country. With Smart at the helm, the program aims to continue its rise while preparing players for collegiate and professional careers.