Kennedy, 18, will compete a two-year course at the elite college, which was set up to provide a pathway for the country's up-and-coming basketballers.

He will complete a diploma of sport and train five days a week.

Smyth is a four-time Olympian and former Australian Boomers head coach.

Former National Basketball Association players Lanard Copeland and Luc Longley and Melbourne Tigers legend Andrew Gaze will assist Smyth in the college's first year.

Smyth said Kennedy was one of 15 players accepted into the college, which is based at Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre and Kilsyth.

He said the Hornets guard had immense potential.

"The college is an elite college for kids on the cusp of the elite level," Smyth said. "Kennedy has the talent to be an NBL player and could push to be an Australian player.

"He has size and speed and has had good coaches where he's been at.

"There is room for improvement and talking to him, it's what he wants to do."

Smyth said he was excited about working with Kennedy.

"Everyone we spoke to about Danny was glowing," Smyth said. "Everyone said his work ethic is terrific."

Smyth said the Australian College of Basketball was developed to ensure teenage basketballers weren't lost to the game.

"In the end most basketballers finish year 12 and go to the United States," Smyth said. "There are good stories and bad stories and there hasn't been another pathway to go.

"The longer they are in the game, the better for them and the game.

"The upside is they are involved in basketball full-time and like with anything, something you do full-time you are going to be better at it."

Kennedy, who thanked family, friends and coaches for their support, will start at the college on February 4.