Former NBA star and current TNT NBA analyst, Kenny Smith, has taken on two new 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 renowned Next Stars program. In addition, he will become a part owner of an upcoming NBL expansion team.
The move comes at a significant time as the NBA G League Ignite program is set to conclude after this season, offering another pathway for American high school players aiming to reach the NBA without pursuing college basketball.
Smith's responsibilities will include recruiting, developing, and mentoring new Next Stars players, as well as contributing to the ownership of a future NBL team, the details of which will be disclosed later.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the opportunity, Smith stated, '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.'
Since its inception in 2018, the NBL Next Stars program has been instrumental in nurturing NBA draft-eligible talent. Notable alumni of the program include LaMelo Ball, Josh Giddey, RJ Hampton, and Ousmane Dieng, all of whom were selected in the first round of the NBA Draft.
The NBL is recognized as one of the top professional basketball leagues worldwide, offering players competitive salaries, draft bonuses, accommodation, one-on-one coaching, and exposure to elite scouts.
Participants in the Next Stars program also benefit from comprehensive player development both on and off the court. They receive leadership training, financial planning guidance, media coaching, and personal branding expertise, all aimed at preparing them for a successful transition to the NBA.
Larry Kestelman, Owner of the NBL, expressed pride in the Next Stars program's achievements and emphasized the League's commitment to further enhancing player development and scouting opportunities. The addition of Kenny Smith to the NBL signifies a significant step forward for the League and its aspirations for continued growth and success.
