Jabari Smith Jr. is one of the brightest young stars in the NBA today. With his impressive combination of size, skill, and shooting ability, he has quickly become a cornerstone for the Houston Rockets. Fans and analysts alike are excited to see how high he can rise as he continues to develop his game.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about Jabari Smith Jr. in 2025—his net worth, contract, salary, career earnings, endorsements, and a detailed look at his journey from high school standout to NBA professional.
Jabari Smith Jr.’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jabari Montsho Smith Jr. |
| Date of Birth | May 13, 2003 |
| Age | 21 |
| Education | Sandy Creek High School, Auburn University |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m) |
| Weight | 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Turned Pro | 2022 (NBA Draft) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $15 million |
| Salary/Career Earnings | $28,083,034 |
| Girlfriend | Jasmine A |
| Instagram Profile | @jabariismith |
| Twitter Profile | @jabarismithjr |
Early Career
Jabari Smith Jr. was born on May 13, 2003, in Fayetteville, Georgia, to Jabari Smith Sr. and Taneskia Purnell. His father, Jabari Smith Sr., played college basketball at LSU and had a four-year NBA career before continuing his career overseas.
Growing up in a basketball family, Jabari Jr. was introduced to the sport at the age of five, with his father playing a crucial role in his early development. His father’s understanding of the evolving nature of basketball, especially the rise of tall, versatile shooters, influenced how Jabari Jr. approached the game from a young age.
By the time he was 15, Jabari Jr. was playing for the Atlanta Celtics on the AAU circuit, where he further honed his skills against top competition. He attended Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, Georgia, where he quickly made a name for himself as a dominant force on both ends of the court. As a sophomore, he joined the varsity team and began to stand out for his scoring, rebounding, and shot-blocking abilities.
During his junior year, Jabari averaged 24.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, establishing himself as one of the best high school players in the country. His senior season was even more impressive, as he averaged 24 points, 10 rebounds, three steals, and three blocks per game.
Under his leadership, Sandy Creek reached the Class 3A state championship game, finishing as runners-up. His individual accolades included being named Mr. Georgia Basketball, Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year, and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution All-Classification Player of the Year. He was also selected to play in the McDonald’s All-American Game, the Jordan Brand Classic, and the Nike Hoop Summit.
Professional Career
Jabari Smith Jr. entered the NBA with high expectations after being selected third overall by the Houston Rockets in the 2022 NBA Draft. His transition to the professional level was closely watched, and he quickly showed flashes of the talent that made him a top pick.
In his rookie season, Jabari started all 79 games he played, averaging 12.8 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting, combined with his defensive versatility, made him a valuable asset for the rebuilding Rockets. He was named to the NBA All-Rookie Second Team, a testament to his immediate impact.
In his second season (2023-24), Jabari continued to develop his game. He played 76 games, all as a starter, and improved his averages to 13.7 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His shooting percentages also saw a notable uptick, with a field goal percentage of 45.4% and a three-point percentage of 36.3%.
Jabari’s improved efficiency and growing confidence on the court helped the Rockets become more competitive, and he started to take on a larger leadership role within the team.
The 2024-25 season saw Jabari further cement his status as a key player for Houston. Despite some ups and downs, he remained a consistent presence in the starting lineup, playing 39 games (36 starts) and averaging 12.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game.
His shooting remained solid, and he continued to show growth as a defender and rebounder. By his third NBA season, Jabari had established himself as a reliable two-way player, capable of contributing on both ends of the floor.
Girlfriend
Jabari Smith Jr.’s girlfriend is Jasmine A, as confirmed by both of their Instagram accounts. Jasmine attended Louisiana State University (LSU) and celebrated her graduation in October 2024, sharing photos in her graduation gown on Instagram.
Jabari showed his support by commenting, “So proud of you mama,” highlighting their close relationship.
The couple made their relationship public on Instagram in late 2023, posting photos together and exchanging affectionate comments. Jasmine’s sister, Kennedi Brooke, has also referred to Jabari as her “brother-in-law” on social media, though this is an affectionate nickname and not an indication of marriage.
Despite their public posts, both Jabari and Jasmine keep most details about their relationship private, including how and when they met. Jasmine is active on Instagram under the handle @jaebvby, where she has more than 6,000 followers.
Jabari Smith Jr.’s Net Worth Details
Jabari Smith Jr.’s net worth is estimated to be $15 million as of 2025.
Contract
Jabari Smith Jr. is currently playing under his rookie contract with the Houston Rockets, which he signed after being selected third overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. The deal is a four-year contract worth $40,330,432 and is fully guaranteed, reflecting his high draft status and potential as a franchise cornerstone.
The contract includes team options for both the 2024-25 and 2025-26 seasons, which the Rockets have exercised, ensuring Jabari remains with the team through at least the 2025-26 season. If he continues to perform at a high level, he will be eligible for a significant contract extension or a new deal as a restricted free agent in the summer of 2026.
Salary
For the 2024-25 NBA season, Jabari Smith Jr. will earn a base salary of $9,770,880 as part of his rookie contract with the Houston Rockets. This salary reflects the value set for the third overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft and is fully guaranteed. Jabari’s annual salary has increased each season, starting at $8,882,640 in his rookie year and rising steadily as he progresses through his contract.
His earnings place him among the top young talents in the league, and with his continued development, he is positioned for an even larger payday when he becomes eligible for a contract extension or free agency in the future.
Career Earnings
| Season | Age | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 19 | Houston Rockets | $8,882,640 |
| 2023-24 | 20 | Houston Rockets | $9,326,520 |
| 2024-25 | 21 | Houston Rockets | $9,770,880 |
| 2025-26 | 22 | Houston Rockets | $12,350,392 |
| Total | $40,330,432 |
NBA Career Stats
| Season | Team | GP | GS | MIN | FG% | 3P% | FT% | REB | AST | BLK | STL | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | HOU | 79 | 79 | 31.0 | 40.8 | 30.7 | 78.6 | 7.2 | 1.3 | 0.9 | 0.5 | 12.8 |
| 2023-24 | HOU | 76 | 76 | 31.9 | 45.4 | 36.3 | 81.1 | 8.1 | 1.6 | 0.8 | 0.7 | 13.7 |
| 2024-25 | HOU | 57 | 39 | 30.1 | 43.8 | 35.4 | 82.5 | 7.0 | 1.1 | 0.7 | 0.4 | 12.2 |
| Career | HOU | 212 | 194 | 31.1 | 43.2 | 34.0 | 80.5 | 7.5 | 1.3 | 0.8 | 0.6 | 13.0 |
FAQs
1. Who is Jabari Smith Jr. and what position does he play?
Jabari Smith Jr. is an American professional basketball player who plays as a power forward for the Houston Rockets in the NBA. He was selected as the third overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft after playing college basketball at Auburn University.
2. How old is Jabari Smith Jr. and where is he from?
Jabari Smith Jr. was born on May 13, 2003, in Fayetteville, Georgia. As of April 2025, he is 21 years old and has roots in Georgia, where he also attended high school.
3. What are Jabari Smith Jr.’s physical attributes?
Jabari Smith Jr. stands 6 feet 11 inches tall and weighs approximately 220 pounds. His wingspan measures 7 feet 1 inch, which contributes to his effectiveness as a power forward and defender.
4. What is Jabari Smith Jr.’s NBA career like so far?
Since joining the Houston Rockets in 2022, Jabari Smith Jr. has developed into a key player. Over his first three seasons, he has averaged around 14.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, showing steady improvement each year.
5. What are some highlights from Jabari Smith Jr.’s college basketball career?
At Auburn University, Jabari Smith Jr. played one season, leading the team in scoring and helping Auburn reach a 28-6 record. He was instrumental in Auburn achieving a No. 1 ranking in the AP poll for the first time in school history.
6. What is Jabari Smith Jr.’s family background in basketball?
Jabari Smith Jr. is the son of Jabari Smith Sr., who played four seasons in the NBA and also had a professional career overseas. His cousin, Kwame Brown, was the first overall pick in the 2001 NBA Draft and played 13 seasons in the league.
7. Has Jabari Smith Jr. received any notable honors or awards?
Jabari Smith Jr. was selected to the 2023 Jordan NBA Rising Stars event, recognizing him as one of the top young players in the league. In high school, he earned titles such as Mr. Georgia Basketball and Georgia Gatorade Player of the Year.
8. What is Jabari Smith Jr.’s current contract and salary status?
Jabari Smith Jr. is under contract with the Houston Rockets through the 2025-26 NBA season. For the 2024-25 season, his salary is $9,770,880. He will become a free agent after the 2025-26 season unless extended or traded.
9. What are Jabari Smith Jr.’s strengths on the court?
Jabari Smith Jr. is known for his versatile scoring ability, especially his outside shooting, which is rare for a player his size. He is also a strong rebounder and has improved his defense and three-point shooting since entering the NBA.
10. Are there any trade rumors or recent changes in Jabari Smith Jr.’s role with the Rockets?
Recently, Jabari Smith Jr. was moved from the starting lineup to the bench in favor of Amen Thompson. There have been reports suggesting he could be a trade candidate, with speculation about a possible deal involving the Phoenix Suns, especially as he approaches free agency after the 2025-26 season.
