J. R. Smith

Here’s a detailed profile of J. R. Smith:

J. R. Smith – Life, Career, and Memorable Moments

Explore the life of Earl Joseph “J. R.” Smith III — from high school phenom to two-time NBA champion, his ups and downs, personality, and legacy.

Introduction

Earl Joseph “J. R.” Smith III (born September 9, 1985) is an American former professional basketball player known for his shooting ability, unpredictability, and flair on (and off) the court. Over his 16-year NBA career, he won two championships and made a name for himself not only through his performances but also for his bold personality, tattoos, and candidness.

In later years, he also embarked on a remarkable journey: enrolling in college and joining a collegiate golf team — a rare path for a former NBA player.

Early Life & Background

Smith was born in Freehold Borough, New Jersey, on September 9, 1985. He grew up in the Clarksburg section of Millstone Township, New Jersey.

He attended several high schools: he spent some time at Steinert High and McCorristin Catholic, before transferring to Lakewood High, and finally to Saint Benedict’s Preparatory School in Newark. At Saint Benedict’s, he developed into a top basketball prospect.

In 2004, he was co-MVP of the McDonald’s All-American Game, which helped confirm his status as one of the top high school players in the country.

Instead of attending college, Smith declared for the NBA draft directly out of high school.

NBA Career & Achievements

Entry into the League & Early Years

Smith was selected 18th overall in the 2004 NBA Draft by the New Orleans Hornets. In his rookie season, he averaged about 10.3 points per game.

During his early years, he earned Western Conference Rookie of the Month honors multiple times. He had some struggles with consistency, shot selection, and work ethic which drew critiques from coaches and analysts.

Time with the Denver Nuggets

In 2006, Smith was traded to the Denver Nuggets. While in Denver, he developed into a dangerous perimeter shooter and contributor off the bench.

One memorable performance: during the 2008–09 season, he scored 45 points including 11 three-pointers in a game, helping Denver lock up a division title.

However, his career in Denver also had its controversies: in the 2018 NBA Finals (while he was later with Cleveland), he once dribbled out the clock when he mistakenly believed his team was ahead. That moment became one of the more infamous plays of his career.

Knicks, Cavaliers & Lakers – Titles and Legacy

Smith signed with the New York Knicks in 2012. With the Knicks, he had some of his best scoring seasons and was named NBA Sixth Man of the Year in 2013.

In January 2015, Smith was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers. He became an important role player for the Cavaliers, contributing to their 2016 NBA Championship run.

Later, in 2020, Smith joined the Los Angeles Lakers and won his second NBA title.

Statistics & Style

Over his NBA career, Smith scored 12,148 points, with averages of about 12.4 points per game, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists. He was known for his three-point shooting, willingness to take deep shots, and residual unpredictability in decision-making.

He also had a stint in China’s CBA during the 2011–2012 NBA lockout, playing for the Zhejiang Golden Bulls, where he posted impressive statistics (averaging over 34 points per game) and set scoring records.

Personality, Off-Court Life & Reinvention

Smith’s personality and off-court presence have been a major part of how he is viewed by fans and media:

• Tattoos & Personal Style: He is heavily tattooed (he claimed to have gotten his first tattoo at age 15), and his body art became a signature part of his image.

• Public Incidents & Perception: He’s been involved in controversies (e.g. the dribbling-out-the-clock incident, statements, on-court antics) which have caused mixed public opinion about his consistency and mental approach to the game.

• Reinvention & Education: After his NBA career, in 2021, Smith enrolled at North Carolina A&T State University, aiming for a college degree and joining their golf team. He even played competitive college golf and earned academic honors.

• Other pursuits: He also moved into esports (signing with Complexity Gaming) and remained active in brand and media ventures.

Legacy & Lessons

• Champion with a unique path: Smith’s journey—from high school to the pros, to a second career in college golf—defies many conventional expectations.

• Risk & reward: His style of play (taking bold shots, making or missing) reflected a willingness to take risks. Sometimes that led to brilliance, sometimes criticism.

• Resilience & adaptation: Transitioning life paths (NBA → college athlete) shows adaptability and willingness to pursue growth at any stage.

• The human behind the athlete: His tattoos, candid personality, and public missteps remind us that athletes are more than just their stats.