HOUSTON — Most individuals involved in Rockets’ company-wide day of service knew who was arriving when the black sprinter van pulled up in front of the Fourth Ward’s historic Saulnier House.
The property is in the middle of Freedmen’s Town. It was established in 1865 by formerly enslaved Black people who purchased land and used it to create a community.
Newly hired head coach Ime Udoka was the first one out of the van, followed by general manager Rafael Stone, point guard Kevin Porter Jr., and forward Jabari Smith Jr. It was the first public appearance for Smith since he and fellow rookie teammate Tari Eason were named to the 2023 NBA’s All-Rookie second team.
“It is a good accomplishment, but I know more is ahead,” Smith told the media. “It’s a big deal, but how I am, I will use it for motivation. I underachieved by my standards this year. I know that we have to be better next year, and I have to be better next year.”
Smith was selected by the Rockets with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft. He finished the season averaging 12.8 points and 7.2 rebounds in the 79 games he started.
“It is hard to make any achievement in this league,” Porter said of his teammates’ accomplishments. “There is so much talent, and just to be rewarded as top rookies is a great way to start your career, and they are going to strive more and more.”
“It’s a big deal, but how I am, I will use it for motivation,” said Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. about being selected to the All-NBA Rookie Second Team. “I underachieved for my standards this year and I know I have to be better next year.” #Rockets #Sarge @TheRocketsWire pic.twitter.com/dduz7oQeir
— #SARGE (@BigSargeSportz) June 2, 2023
Friday was also a chance for Smith to finally meet and talk with Udoka, who started his new job in late April. Although it was a short ride from Toyota Center to the Fourth Ward, Smith was impressed by Udoka and can’t wait to see him bring the same philosophy and intensity he had when he led Boston to the 2022 NBA Finals.
“I don’t know him yet,” Smith joked with reporters about Udoka. “He is real cool. We had a conversation in the car on the way over here. He is a good guy, and can’t wait to get to know him better. It is a long season, getting to know somebody you are going to be with every day when the season starts. I am learning different things about him, and he is getting to know me.”
Smith has kept himself busy in the 2023 offseason by working out with his dad, former NBA player Jabari Smith Sr., and taking yoga classes. He has even gotten into boxing, which he says is helping him with his footwork and coordination.
