Jalen Smith was born on March 16, 2000 in Portsmouth, Virginia. His father, Charles, served in the Navy, instilling in Smith a sense of discipline and hard work from a young age.
Smith quickly made a name for himself in high school basketball, being recognized as a top 25 recruit in the 2018 class. His talent was undeniable, and he was selected to the prestigious McDonald's All-American team in 2018.
Smith went on to play for the University of Maryland Terrapins, where he continued to excel on the court. As a sophomore, he was named a third-team All-American and was a key player in the Terrapins' success. He also received recognition for his defensive skills, being named to the Big Ten All-Defensive Team.
In the 2020 NBA Draft, Smith was selected 10th overall by the Phoenix Suns, fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing in the NBA. He joined the likes of other top picks, including LaMelo Ball, in what was a highly anticipated draft class.
Off the court, Smith is known for his humility and dedication to his craft. He continues to work hard to improve his game and make a name for himself in the NBA.
As Jalen Smith's career continues to unfold, it is clear that he has the potential to become a standout player in the NBA. With his strong work ethic and natural talent, the sky is the limit for this young basketball star.