Backstroker Bella Smith Hands Harvard First 2028 Verbal Commitment
NEW COMMIT: Harvard University has scored its first public verbal commitment* for Fall 2028 from Bella Smith of Oakland, Calif. Smith is a Junior National qualifier who excels in backstroke.
Regarding her commitment, she said:
“I am so excited and grateful to announce my verbal commitment to the admissions process at Harvard University! I want to thank my family, friends, and coaches for their support and guidance throughout this journey. I also want to thank Coach Amanda and Coach Niko for this incredible opportunity. I can’t wait to be a part of HWSD! Go Crimson! ❤️”
Smith, who does her club swimming with Orinda Aquatics, earned two best times at Junior Nationals this past summer after winning the 200m back at Novato Speedo Sectionals. Last winter, she competed at Juniors West before going on to place fourth in both the 100 back and 200 back at Roseville Speedo Sectionals. She was the 200 back champion at Far Westerns in April, too.
Her best times include:
- 50 back – 25.46
- 100 back – 53.93
- 200 back – 1:56.06
Currently a junior at The College Prep School, Smith placed fourth in the 100 back at both the 2026 CIF North Coast Section Championships and the 2026 CIF State Championships. She has earned NISCA All-America honors.
Harvard placed third at the 2026 Ivy League Championships. Smith’s best times in the 100 back and 200 back are already fast enough to have scored in the A-final at last year’s conference meet. She would’ve ranked second on Harvard’s roster in the 50 back and 200 back last season, as well as third in the 100 back.
*IVY LEAGUE DISCLAIMER:* A “verbal commitment” does not guarantee admission. An Ivy League coach cannot guarantee admission but can only commit support in the admissions process.
If you have a commitment to share, please send a photo and quote via email to hs@swimmingworld.com.
