Last Updated on April 15, 2026 by Mat Diekhake

Here is the information on Jabari Smith Jr.:

Player Profile

  • Full Name: Jabari Montsho Smith Jr.
  • Nationality: American
  • Age: Born May 13, 2003
  • Hometown: Fayetteville, Georgia, USA
  • Height: 6 feet 10 inches (2.08 meters)
  • Weight: 220 pounds (100 kg)
  • Wingspan: 7 feet 1 inch (216 cm)
  • Shoe Size: Size 16 (US)
  • Number: Wears #1
  • Position: Power Forward
  • High School: Sandy Creek High School (Tyrone, Georgia)
  • College: Auburn University (2021–2022)
  • NBA Draft: 2022 NBA Draft, 1st Round, 3rd overall by the Houston Rockets
  • Teams Played For:
    • Houston Rockets (2022–present)
  • Championship Rings: None
  • Kids: None
  • Siblings: Has one older brother, A.J. Smith

Jabari Smith Jr.’s player archetype is that of a two-way stretch forward: a long, mobile frontcourt shooter who can space the floor on one end and switch across multiple matchups on the other. Defensively, he projects best as a rangy help defender and perimeter-capable forward who can contest wings, survive switches, and use his length to bother shots without needing to be a full-time paint anchor. Offensively, his role is built around spot-up shooting, pick-and-pop play, secondary scoring, and attacking closeouts rather than serving as a primary creator. Physically, Smith stands out with his 6-foot-11 frame, lean build, long reach, and high release, all of which make his jumper difficult to challenge and give him real versatility in space. His play style is smooth and modern, relying on shot-making, positional size, defensive mobility, and complementary two-way value more than brute force or high-level on-ball creation. (Sporting News)

Notes:

  • Similar players to Jabari Smith Jr. include LaMarcus Aldridge and Kevin Garnett.
  • Jabari Smith Jr.’s father (Jabari Smith) also played in the NBA. Jabari Smith started his NBA career that spanned four years in 2000. Jabari Smith played with Lebron James, as did his son Jabari Smith Jr.

Player Insights

Player updates: After two weeks of the 2025-26 regular season, it is clear that Jabari Smith Jr. has expanded his offensive game over the offseason. There were rumors that Smith Jr. would benefit from Kevin Durant joining the Rockets. It looks like Durant has taught Smith Jr. some offensive moves that would allow Smith Jr. to play more of a small forward role. The Rockets started the season with Smith Jr. playing SF and Durant at SG, but it didn’t work well on the defensive end. Nevertheless, Smith Jr. at power forward can still display small forward moves on the offensive end that will benefit the Rockets. 11/5/2025

Sources:
NBA.com — Jabari Smith Jr. | Forward | Houston Rockets | NBA.com
Sporting News — Jabari Smith Jr. scouting report: 2022 NBA Draft prospect’s strengths, weaknesses and player comparison
The Ringer — Why Jabari Smith Jr. Might Be the Best Prospect in the 2022 NBA Draft