Zhaire Smith (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
The Texas Legends acquired Zhaire Smith in a midseason trade with the Cleveland Charge in late February, bringing the former No. 16 overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft into the Dallas Mavericks organization as he continues to work toward a return to the NBA level.
Smith, 25, has made the most of his opportunity with the Legends, averaging 21.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 36.8 minutes per game across seven performances. He’s shooting 54.8% from the floor, 31.7% from beyond the arc, and 88.2% on free throws.
“Oh man, [the Legends] have helped me a lot,” Smith told RG. “They welcomed me with open arms. They knew my game better than I knew mine. They just said, ‘This is what you’re good at, and this is what we’re going to do.’ And we’ve just been building from there.”
The Lakeview Centennial High School (Garland) product is back in the Dallas-Fort Worth area as he competes with the Legends in Frisco.
“It’s good. I’ve got a little family involved—my family, my uncles,” Smith said. “So it’s good being back home, but I’m really just staying focused.”
The present focus for Smith is to showcase his overall versatility, including his ability to get downhill offensively, be an impact defender, play multiple positions, and be a consistent shooter—qualities he hopes will make him a valued contributor to an NBA team.
“I think just my versatility—getting downhill, being able to score in the paint, being a defensive player, and trying to be the type of player that can play on any team,” Smith said. “I want to show that I can be put in different positions. Also, showing my three-ball capability and just being a great all-around player, playing the right way.”
Expanding His Offensive Game
During this G League season, Smith believes he’s most improved in attacking the rim, particularly with getting to counters and leveraging shoulder contact to create advantages. He has worked on his handle to contribute more than just as a catch-and-shoot option.
“I feel like I’ve improved on getting to the rim,” Smith explained. “Changing directions, using my shoulder, and just being able to get to the paint and create off that. I haven’t been doing that much in the past—I was usually just catch-and-shoot if you saw me last year or previously with the other team. So I’ve been expanding on that, staying in the gym, and working on my handles as well.”
When Smith entered the NBA, shooting consistency was a key focus. He has since worked on being a more confident shooter, focusing on mechanics such as hip usage and follow-through.
“I’d say being confident. Three years ago, if I missed two threes in a row, I’d lose confidence and probably wouldn’t shoot anymore,” Smith said. “Now, I could go 0-for-10 and still have the utmost confidence because I trust in my work. Also, using my hips and holding my follow-through—just little things, staying disciplined if I get to missing.”
In terms of defensive growth, Smith continues to sharpen his preparation by studying film and learning the tendencies of opposing players. He aims to make things uncomfortable for his matchups and trust the game plan.
While opportunities can be unpredictable, Smith recently had a chance to compete alongside Mavericks players on injury rehab assignments, including Anthony Davis, Jaden Hardy, and Kai Jones.
“It was great. It’s good seeing that next level because it’s going to make you better,” Smith said. “So it was great playing against AD, Kai Jones, and Hardy—I definitely got better from that run.”
Many Mavericks fans have closely followed Davis’ recovery from an adductor strain suffered in his debut on Feb. 8. Smith had the opportunity to play with Davis during 5-on-5 runs at a recent practice and saw firsthand how Davis impacts the game.
“Luckily, he was on my team, so I saw it from a different standpoint,” Smith said of Davis. “I didn’t want any actions with him before that! But really, just the way he gets to his spots and is unguardable. He can score from three, block shots—what can you do? He’s just elite. When he’s healthy, I can’t wait to watch him in action and see how what he did in practice translates to the game.”
While Hardy and Jones are questionable to play Wednesday against the Indiana Pacers, Smith may get another chance to gain practice reps with Davis soon.
“I think we’re going to do it again sometime this week,” Smith said.
“When we get those opportunities, I love it and take full advantage of it—going against some of the best players in the world.”
One of Smith’s regular teammates with the Legends is Jazian Gortman, who spent training camp with the Mavericks and was later signed to a two-way contract before being waived in January to sign Kylor Kelley due to injuries in the frontcourt.
“Very talented. I like his game—he can score on all three levels and makes the right decisions. He can go,” Smith said of Gortman. “For him, maybe just locking in on the defensive end, excelling in that role, being more vocal, and showing leadership. He’s been pretty good at that.”
Overcoming Adversity and Staying the Course
Smith’s journey has been anything but linear. After dealing with injuries and setbacks early in his career, he has worked relentlessly to regain his confidence and rebuild his game. Each challenge has only fueled his determination to prove that he belongs in the NBA.
“I know what I’ve been through, and I know what I’m capable of,” Smith said. “It’s all about staying focused, staying ready, and making sure I take advantage of every opportunity. I don’t take anything for granted.”
As the Legends near the end of their season, Smith remains locked in on his development, determined to make the most of every opportunity that comes his way. He’s doing everything in his power to earn another shot at the NBA—and proving he’s ready whenever that call comes.
“It’s all about trusting the process,” Smith said. “I believe in myself, and I know my time is coming. I’ll be ready when it does.”
Grant Afseth is a Dallas-based basketball writer with over eight years of experience covering the NBA. He’s spent time on the Mavericks beat for Sports Illustrated and now writes for Sportskeeda.com and DallasHoopsJournal.com. Known for his analysis, engaging interviews, and breaking news coverage, Grant provides a fresh angle to the game.
