The Rockets were clearly happy to add Auburn forward Jabari Smith with the No. 3 pick in Thursday’s 2022 NBA draft. For Smith, who was projected by most mock drafts to go at No. 1, there was a bit of shock.
But judging by his reaction interview from the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Banchero appeared similarly excited to be headed to Houston.
“I’m happy to be where I’m wanted,” Smith said after Thursday’s stunning turn of events. “I’m glad they took a chance on me. I’m ready to get in there and show them they made the right decision.”
It was the start of a busy night for the Rockets, who also entered with picks at No. 17 (via Brooklyn) and No. 26 (via Dallas) in the first-round order. While we will have full coverage of general manager Rafael Stone’s post-draft press conference later Thursday night, here’s a look at the immediate reaction from players who are soon on their way to Houston.
