Kenny Smith

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Lore & Background

Smith's tenure with the Rockets is defined by two historic NBA Finals victories. In 1994, he helped Houston to a franchise-best 58–24 record and a championship, concluding a year that started with a 22–1 record. In 1995, the Rockets became the lowest seeded playoff team to win the championship, finishing third in the Midwest Division with a 47–35 record. In Game 1 of the 1995 Finals against the Orlando Magic, Smith scored 23 points with 9 assists and made seven three-pointers, including the game-tying shot that sent the game into overtime. His 7 three-pointers in that game set an NBA record at the time. The Rockets won 120–118 and went on to sweep the Magic in four games. From the 1992–93 to 1994–95 seasons, Smith averaged 11.7 points and 4.5 assists per game with a three-point percentage of .425; in 57 playoff games during that same period, he averaged 11.6 points and 4.3 assists while shooting .456 from three-point range.

In Their Own Story

The air inside The Summit was thick with anticipation as the clock ticked under ten seconds in Game 6 of the 1995 Western Conference Semifinals against the Phoenix Suns. Hakeem Olajuwon drew the defense, but it was Kenny Smith who spotted the opening. With a calm that belied the noise of the arena, he dribbled upcourt, his eyes scanning the floor before threading a perfect pass. In that moment, the city of Houston held its breath, knowing their point guard had delivered once again. Smith had been gradually losing playing time to Sam Cassell, but he continued as the Rockets' starting point guard through the 1995–96 season. In game four of the 1996 first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers, Smith had 17 points, 6 assists and was 4–4 from three-point range to help the Rockets win the series clincher 102–94.

Reader's Guide

Kenny Smith's era in Houston spanned from the 1990–91 season through 1995–96, marking the team's transition into a championship dynasty. Known as "the Jet" for his smooth ball-handling and speed, he was a classic pick-and-roll specialist who thrived alongside Hakeem Olajuwon. In his first season with the Rockets (1990–91), Smith averaged 17.7 points per game while leading the team in assists per game (7.1) and free throw percentage (.844). Despite Olajuwon missing 25 games due to injury, Smith helped the Rockets to a 52–30 record, the best regular season in franchise history at the time. He received votes for the NBA Most Valuable Player Award and finished third in Most Improved Player voting. His greatest achievements include winning two NBA championships (1994 and 1995). Smith was vital for his clutch shooting, often hitting critical three-pointers that kept Houston competitive. In the 1995 Finals, his 7 three-pointers in Game 1 set an NBA record. His legacy is defined by his role as the ultimate facilitator who ensured success for his teammates, remaining a beloved figure in Rockets history for his steady leadership during their most successful period.

Did You Know?

• Smith was traded to the Rockets after the 1989–90 season along with Roy Marble in exchange for John Lucas and Tim McCormick.
• In his first season with Houston (1990–91), Smith received votes for the NBA Most Valuable Player Award and finished third in Most Improved Player voting.
• Smith's 7 three-pointers in Game 1 of the 1995 NBA Finals was an NBA record at the time.
• The 1995 Rockets became the lowest seeded playoff team to win the championship, finishing third in the Midwest Division with a 47–35 record.
• From the 1992–93 to 1994–95 seasons, Smith shot .456 from three-point range in 57 playoff games.