NBA Future Watch: Jai Smith Basketball Cards, Miami Heat – Jai Smith is a fascinating physical specimen with an intellect to match. Nicknamed “Ice Man” after he grew fascinated with George Gervin, Smith is CEO of his own “Iceman” clothing line. He is bilingual (English/Spanish) and a student of the game. When his playing days are over, he aspires to become an NBA general manager. Smith has the demonstrable intellect to develop himself into one of the game’s most well-rounded wings.
An intriguing combo forward from Word of God Christian Academy in Raleigh, NC, Smith, posted an eye-watering 27 PPG and 15 RPG his senior season. He also distinguished himself for his AAU team, the New York Dragons. Scholarship offers flowed in from several major schools – including Kansas, Texas, Texas Tech, UCLA, USC, Oregon, Arizona, Marquette, Alabama, Memphis, and Houston. However, Smith decided to become part of the inaugural class at Overtime Elite.
Smith’s numbers there did not disappoint. 18.4 PPG, 14.1 RPG, 2.2 APG, 1.9 SPG and 1.3 BPG on a Per-40 basis. Nevertheless, like other associates from the program who dominated, pro scouts and coaches weren’t sure of level of competition in Overtime Elite’s first season. So, Smith moved untouched through the 2022 NBA Draft. Recently, Smith joined the Sioux Falls Skyforce of the G League, where he will continue to develop his game.
While Smith has a foundation of good scoring off the dribble and on motion plays, he must expand the consistency of his shot in other areas. Smith is blessed as a secondary playmaker. His athleticism helps him excel in all facets defensively, yet eliminating occasional lapses will be a priority. Smith is presently something of a rough gem. However, playing for Miami’s G League affiliate puts him in line to join one of the game’s premier player development programs. Smith idolizes Jimmy Butler for working his way up from the fringes of the game to superstardom. He may be in position to learn from Butler firsthand and carve out his own place among the great players in Heat history.
NBA Future Watch: Jai Smith – Stats
Statistical image generated from NBA G-League 02/26/2023.
NBA Future Watch: Jai Smith Basketball Cards, Miami Heat – More Resources
- 2021-22 Topps Chrome Overtime Elite Basketball Cards Checklist
- Beckett Card Catalog
- Secondary Market Pricing
- NBA G-League Player Profile
- Overtime Elite Player Profile
NBA Future Watch: Jai Smith Basketball Cards, Miami Heat – Image Gallery
- Soccer Future Watch: Sadio Mané Soccer Cards, Al Nassr - April 24, 2024
- NBA Future Watch: Andre Jackson Jr. Basketball Cards, Milwaukee Bucks - April 22, 2024
- Racing Future Watch: Zane Smith Racing Cards, NASCAR - April 20, 2024