Laurel's Jaden Smothers signs to play at Saint Francis University

Laurel native Jaden Smothers, who learned the game at the Robert J. DiPietro Community Center and played at DeMatha Catholic High School, is heading to Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania on an academic scholarship to play basketball. Smothers said basketball has been "his safe place" and credited local coaches and community programs with supporting his development.

The 18-year-old, now a freshman-bound college student and finance major, urged other young people in Laurel to take advantage of parks and recreation facilities to build skills and opportunities. "Just keep pushing every day," Smothers said, adding that you never know when someone might be watching and that persistence can open doors to collegiate-level competition.

City communications presented Smothers' story as an example of local youth development and the role of recreation programming in fostering opportunities.