Was Kenny Smith an NBA All Star
Yes, Kenny Smith was an NBA All Star. He was selected to the NBA All Star Game twice in his career, in 1993 and 1994, while playing for the Houston Rockets. His All Star selections came during the peak of his career, when he averaged over 21 points per game and helped the Rockets reach the NBA Finals in 1994. Kenny Smith NBA profile
Smith's All Star appearances were part of a broader All NBA and All Defense level career. He finished his 12 year NBA career with averages of 14.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game. He played college basketball at the University of North Carolina, where he won an NCAA championship in 1982, and was drafted fifth overall by the Sacramento Kings in 1987.
Kenny Smith Career Highlights and All Star Context
During his two All Star seasons, Smith was a key member of the Rockets' backcourt alongside Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. The Rockets won their first NBA championship in 1994, with Smith starting all 43 playoff games and shooting 48.6 percent from three point range. He also won a second championship in 1995, though he was not selected as an All Star that season.
After retiring as a player, Smith transitioned into a long term role as a basketball analyst. He joined TNT as a studio analyst for NBA coverage and has been a regular presence on Inside the NBA for over two decades. His current media career is separate from his playing accolades, but his All Star status remains a central part of his basketball resume.
Kenny Smith All Star Legacy and Current Role
Kenny Smith's two All Star selections place him among the notable shooting guards of the 1990s NBA. While he did not win an All Star Game MVP or make an All NBA First Team, his consistent performance and championship wins give his career significant weight. His three point shooting and defensive versatility made him a reliable starter for playoff teams throughout the decade.
Today, Smith remains a prominent figure in NBA media and business. He has worked with Turner Sports and has been involved in various broadcasting and investment ventures. His career trajectory from two time All Star to respected analyst is often cited as a model for former players transitioning to media roles. Forbes profile on Kenny Smith