The father of NBA player J.R. Smith, who has played for teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks, has returned to New Orleans to take over as head coach of a local high school basketball team. This move comes after a successful tenure at a Virginia prep school, where he led the program for several years.

“It feels good to be back in my comfort zone,” said the elder Smith, who previously coached in the area before pursuing opportunities elsewhere. He will now focus on developing student-athletes at the New Orleans prep school, aiming to leverage his extensive experience in professional basketball to enhance the program.

Smith’s arrival is seen as a significant boost for the team, which has struggled in recent seasons. His connection to the NBA and local community may attract new talent and increase interest in the program.

In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Smith plans to emphasize the importance of academics alongside athletics, aiming to prepare his players for future challenges both on and off the court.

Smith’s return to New Orleans is rooted in personal and professional ties. He has deep connections to the community and believes his familiarity with the area will benefit the players and the program. His son, J.R. Smith, grew up in the region and has expressed support for his father’s new role.

This transition marks a new chapter for both the elder Smith and the high school basketball team. The program hopes to capitalize on his experience to foster a winning culture and develop young talent in a competitive environment.

Smith’s coaching career began over a decade ago, and he has steadily built a reputation for being a mentor to young players. His focus on cultivating skills and discipline is anticipated to resonate well with the student-athletes he will be coaching.

As the high school basketball season approaches, the community watches with anticipation to see how Smith will impact the team and inspire a new generation of players.

Source: news source