In April 2013, Marcus Smart made the controversial decision to return to Oklahoma State for his sophomore season. Smart averaged 15.4 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.2 assists as a freshman, and scouts pegged him as a definite lottery pick.

One year later, Smart is comfortable with his decision to stay in school. He boosted his stats to 18.0 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.8 assists while learning more about himself as a person. Smart's second season included a three-game suspension after an altercation with a fan at Texas Tech. Smart spun the suspension to help him grow, rather than allow it to hinder his NBA dream.