Kenny Smith Joins Australian NBL as Next Stars Head

Former NBA star and current TNT NBA analyst, Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith, is taking on significant roles within the Australian National Basketball League (NBL). Smith will serve as the Head of Next Stars’ Player Initiatives – North America for the NBL’s esteemed Next Stars program. Additionally, he will become a part owner of an upcoming NBL team.

Smith’s move to the NBL comes at a crucial time, with the NBA G League Ignite program set to conclude after this season. This development opens up new opportunities for top American high school players aiming to reach the NBA without pursuing college basketball.

In his new roles, Smith will actively recruit, develop, and mentor new Next Stars players. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “With my passion for growing the game of basketball globally, I’m incredibly excited to be an ambassador of the NBL’s Next Stars program and to be fully invested in the growth of the NBL as a future owner of a new expansion team.”

Smith highlighted the evolving pathways to the NBA and praised the NBL’s track record of getting players drafted. He emphasized his role in mentoring and supporting young talent, preparing them for professional competition and potentially entering the NBA.

The NBL Next Stars program, established in 2018, has played a pivotal role in developing NBA draft-eligible talent. Notable alumni include first-round draft picks LaMelo Ball, Josh Giddey, RJ Hampton, and Ousmane Dieng. The current group of Next Stars includes potential first-round picks such as Alexandre Sarr, who has been ranked No. 1 overall in several prominent mock drafts.

Smith’s involvement signifies the NBL’s growing reputation in talent development and its potential for future success. The league offers participants a competitive salary, draft bonuses, accommodation, one-on-one coaching, and exposure to top-tier competition and world-class scouts.

The NBL is dedicated to providing comprehensive player development both on and off the court. Participants in the Next Stars program will receive leadership training, financial planning advice, media training, and personal branding expertise. These resources will not only enhance their skills but also provide them with a platform to showcase their talent to NBA scouts.

Larry Kestelman, Owner of the NBL, expressed pride in the Next Stars program’s achievements and its potential for further growth. He stated, “The addition of ambassadors and future team owners of Kenny Smith’s caliber and reputation is truly exciting and shows how far we have come, but also indicates to the basketball world where we are headed.”

The NBL’s commitment to player development and its ability to attract high-profile figures like Kenny Smith underscore its status as one of the world’s premier professional basketball leagues outside of the NBA.