Josh Smith, a former NBA star known for his electrifying shot-blocking and high-flying dunks, shares his journey from Atlanta to the league. He reminisces about dominating at Oak Hill and skipping college, leading to an incredible rookie season highlighted by winning the Slam Dunk Contest. Smith reflects on his time with the Hawks, including their fierce playoff battles and the impact of teammates like Joe Johnson and Al Horford. He also reveals experiences with the Rockets during James Harden's prime, showcasing teamwork and the joy of the game.
Josh Smith's journey from high school star to NBA rookie showcases the challenges and expectations faced by young athletes entering professional sports.
The significance of mentorship in the NBA is emphasized, highlighting how veteran players and coaches can profoundly shape young players' careers.
Smith's reflections on the evolving nature of NBA recognition and awards reveal the complexities and challenges surrounding accolades in modern basketball.
Deep dives
The $5 Meal Deal at McDonald's
McDonald's offers a $5 meal deal that allows customers to choose between a McDouble or McChicken, accompanied by small fries, a small drink, and a four-piece McNuggets. This promotion provides a generous amount of food at an affordable price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. The deal reflects McDonald's strategy of providing value meals to draw in customers, especially during competitive market periods. Prices and participation may vary, indicating a limited-time offer that can enhance sales and increase customer satisfaction.
Early Career Insights
The guest detailed their high school basketball journey, highlighting the significant influence of their father, who played in the ABA, and their early experiences in local leagues. They mentioned that the lack of cable TV limited their exposure to professional players, making Michael Jordan a primary inspiration during their formative years. The choice of high school was dictated by district regulations and helped them make a mark by turning the school into a competitive basketball program. Their journey exemplifies how local legacies and familial influences shape aspiring athletes.
Transition to the NBA
The guest shared their challenges upon entering the NBA straight out of high school, including an early experience against Tayshaun Prince that highlighted the physical demands of the professional game. They fondly remembered their high school days and how their career was observed by mentors and fans, creating a blend of inspiration and pressure. The adjustment period required them to adapt quickly to the game’s pace, especially as a rookie competing with experienced players. The conversation reflects the trials and tribulations that many young athletes face when making such significant life changes.
Mentorship and Growth
Discussion revolved around the importance of mentorship in the NBA, with the guest emphasizing how players like Tayshaun Prince and coaches shaped their understanding of the game. They praised Steve Smith's coaching at Oak Hill, recognizing that such guidance helped them develop both on and off the court. Moreover, they underscored the role of veteran players in helping younger athletes navigate their careers, sharing personal anecdotes about learning to balance fame, performance, and personal growth. This topic highlights how crucial mentorship is for sustainable success in competitive sports.
Reflections on NBA Awards and Legacy
The guest reflected on the complexities of NBA awards and recognition, expressing dissatisfaction with how the criteria for honors like defensive player of the year seems inconsistent. They discussed the challenges that players face when striving for accolades while navigating team dynamics and external perceptions. The conversation also touched on the changes in the league, such as the impact of players opting out of traditional competitions like the dunk contest, which reflects broader cultural shifts in sports. Their insights speak to the evolving nature of the game and how past experiences influence current player perspectives.
This week we got another straight-outta-high school high flier as Josh Smith joins Q and D on Knuckleheads! J-Smoove talks about his journey growing up in Atlanta, going to Oak Hill and dominating there, and what it was like to go straight to the league. He talks about playing for his hometown Hawks, his crazy shot-blocking ability, and why those Hawks teams with Joe Johnson and Al Horford were so successful. He also discusses going to Detroit and being on a really good Rockets team with James Harden and Dwight Howard. J-Smoove could throw it down! Tune in!
Going to Oak Hill, playing with Rajon Rondo in prep school (8:33)
Deciding to skip college and go straight to the NBA (18ish)
Winning the Slam Dunk Contest as a rookie (32:17)
Hawks becoming a perennial force in the Eastern Conference (36:38)
Al Horford’s impact on the Hawks, winning the Championship this year (38:03)
The Hawks almost beating the Celtics Big 3 in the playoffs (41:45)
Going to the Rockets, playing with James Harden during his prime (51:25)
About Our Hosts:
NBA veterans Quentin Richardson and Darius Miles are lifelong friends and bona fide truth-tellers. Listen as they invite special guests, high-profile athletes, musicians and entertainers to get brutally honest about everything from current events to untold stories from the golden era of sports and culture. Named for the on-court celebration they made wildly popular, this unfiltered, hilarious and surprising podcast is like playing NBA 2K with no fouls.
