K.J. Smith makes a name for himself at UNC while embracing his dad's basketball legacy

Posted Feb 22, 2019
K.J. Smith, a walk-on point guard for the Tar Heels, dons the same number his father wore. For a while, he even rocked the same flattop haircut Kenny Smith did during his UNC playing days. K.J. fully embraces his dad’s legacy, to the point of letting his teammates call him “Baby Jet.” But it wasn’t always easy to be the namesake of the two-time NBA champion. (Daily Tar Heel)

Related: Basketball, Tar Heels in the NBA

Kevin Thomas ready to win at the next level
After committing to LSU in October of 2025, Kevin Thomas thought he knew where he would spend his college basketball career as he chased his...
Thu Oct 22, 2026

Cole Anthony Wows Wyndham
Wednesday was a day to remember for a group of local basketball players with Melbourne United star Cole Anthony taking them through their paces at...
Thu Oct 22, 2026

Wes Miller on coaching against UNC: 'It’s always special to go back'
Wes Miller returns Tuesday night to familiar surroundings to coach at the Smith Center, where he once played and helped UNC win a national championship...
Thu Oct 22, 2026

Matt Able could have been drafted, now he’s trying to be great
When Matt Able started the draft process, he knew who he was — a leader, a playmaker and, in his opinion, the hardest working person...
Thu Oct 22, 2026