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
UNC Basketball Staff Hires Provide Glimpse of Michael Malone's VisionWhat does a coach who’s had a tremendous amount of success at the NBA level but hasn’t done it at the college level need in...
Thu May 14, 2026Video: What Kevin Thomas Brings To UNC Basketball
Joe Tipton and Jamie Shaw join host Ani Umana of the Next Gen podcast to discuss class of 2026 four-star UNC Basketball commit Kevin Thomas...
Thu May 14, 2026
Matt Able Discusses UNC, Michael Malone, NBA Draft Decision
In Thursday’s scrimmage, Matt Able led his team in scoring with 17 points, shooting 6-for-16 from the field and 4-for-9 from three. "The decision is...
Thu May 14, 2026
UNC Basketball to play West Virginia at Vitale Invitational in Charlotte
North Carolina will play West Virginia in men’s basketball next season in Charlotte, according to a report from Rocco Miller of Field of 68. The...
Thu May 14, 2026