Jabari Smith Jr. overlooked in Top 100 list despite breakout season
Jabari Smith Jr. has faced scrutiny regarding his performance since being drafted third overall by the Houston Rockets, a position that carries significant expectations. Many anticipated Smith would be the top pick in his draft class, especially leading up to the big night. He himself believed he would be selected first by the Orlando Magic, a scenario that would have seen Paolo Banchero joining the Rockets instead. The thought of “what if” looms large for Houston fans.
Navigating Transition and Inconsistency
Since joining the Rockets, Smith’s journey has been anything but straightforward. His role within the team has fluctuated, a common occurrence when a franchise undergoes a coaching transition. Initially drafted by a team focused on rebuilding, Smith found himself in a challenging environment, particularly given the high expectations that accompanied his draft status. Adjusting to the rigors of NBA life proved difficult, especially when factoring in the pressure of potentially being the top overall pick.
With the hiring of Ime Udoka, Smith’s place in the lineup became more precarious. In the 2024-25 season, he transitioned in and out of the starting role, partly due to an injury that limited his play during a critical phase of the season. His performance in the previous season was inconsistent, leading to moments where veteran Jeff Green was favored in late-game situations. During the Rockets’ playoff series against the Golden State Warriors, however, Smith carved out a niche as a valuable reserve, averaging 20.4 minutes per game as Houston utilized a double-big lineup, showcasing his ability to adapt.
A Career-Best Season Unrecognized
This season, Smith has truly found his stride, delivering his most complete performance to date. He is averaging 15.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, while also boasting shooting percentages that underscore his improvement: 45% from the field, 39.1% from beyond the arc, and an impressive 57.4% true shooting percentage. Despite these accomplishments, Smith’s exclusion from The Ringer’s Top 100 list has raised eyebrows.
While his teammate Tari Eason managed to make the list despite Smith’s superior season, the reaction within the team is mixed. Players often claim not to be affected by such rankings; for instance, Alperen Sengun has stated that he pays little attention to where he lands on these lists, regardless of their source. However, other players, like Eason, have expressed frustration about missing out on recognition, which can serve as motivation.
Using Motivation Wisely
As Smith navigates the aftermath of this oversight, it remains to be seen how he will channel this perceived snub. If he can convert it into a driving force, the Rockets could benefit immensely from his heightened determination. However, the organization may also prefer that he remains unfazed by external judgments, focusing instead on his continued development and contributions on the court. Ultimately, how Smith responds to this moment could define not only his individual growth but also the trajectory of the Rockets’ season ahead.
