Jabari Smith Sr. is the father of Jabari Smith Jr. who is right now among the top 5 picks in the 2022 Draft Class. Needless to say, his father was a first-round pick too.
Smith Sr. was a first-round, 29th overall pick selected by the Sacramento Kings. He had a subpar first season averaging just 7.3 minutes per game and 2.9 points per game.
He had a short career in the NBA playing just 5 years from 2000 to 2005. In 5 years, he never got real playing minutes. Jabari Smith Sr. averaged just 3 points per game on 9.8 minutes per game.
However, he did play basketball internationally. He played in Liga ACB in Spain for CB Granada and in 7 games he averaged 8.3 points and 1.4 blocks per game and also missed the playoffs with a 5-29 record.
Comparing Jabari Smith Sr. and Jr college stats
Smith Sr. and Jr. have similar college stats. Even though Smith Jr. has taken some steps forward towards the evolving game, both had a near similar college career.
Both have a similar height, Sr. is 6’11 213lbs whereas Smith Jr. is 6’10 and 220lbs. They both even play the same position which is power forward/center.
Jabari Smith Sr. went to the famous LSU university. He averaged 12.6 points per game on 53% shooting from the field, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks.
Omg that’s tough Jabari smith Sr https://t.co/F2yimc8EDt
— Clint Parks (@ClintParks05) May 31, 2022
Whereas Jr. averaged 16.9 points, 7.4 boards, and 1 block per game on 42% shooting. However, Smith Jr. polished himself for today’s game and has developed a lethal 3-pointer as he averaged 42% from behind the arc.
Smith Jr. clearly separates himself from his father on the other side of the floor. Smith Sr. was a little slow-footed and had slow lateral movement.
Whereas Jr. is a versatile defender and can switch from 2-5 position and jump on the perimeter to guard smaller guards. Both are above-average rim protectors and are more effective at altering the shot rather than blocking the shot.
Even though Jabari Sr. had a subpar NBA career, his son might take a big leap and may become an All-star. regardless Sr. will be proud of his son no matter what.