Dennis Cliff Smith Jr., born on November 25, 1997, is an accomplished American professional basketball player currently showcasing his talents with the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the NBA G League. His journey in basketball began at NC State, where he made a significant impact as a freshman, earning second-team all-conference honors in the Atlantic Coast Conference and being named the ACC Rookie of the Year.
In 2017, Smith's skills caught the attention of NBA scouts, leading to his selection as the ninth overall pick in the NBA draft by the Dallas Mavericks. He quickly made a name for himself in Dallas, where he played for two seasons before a mid-season trade in January 2019 sent him to the New York Knicks.
Smith's career continued to evolve as he was traded to the Detroit Pistons in February 2021. Later that year, he joined the Portland Trail Blazers as a free agent in September. Unfortunately, his time with the Blazers was cut short due to a right elbow injury, leading to his release in February 2022. However, his resilience shone through as he signed with the Charlotte Hornets during the 2022 off-season.
In July 2023, Smith took another step in his career by signing with the Brooklyn Nets, further solidifying his presence in the league. With a dynamic playing style and a determination to succeed, Dennis Smith Jr. continues to be a player to watch in professional basketball.