Kenny Smith, known as “the Jet,” has become an integral part of CBS’s March Madness coverage.
Smith’s dynamic presence and deep knowledge of basketball make him a valuable addition to the CBS studio crew. He is frequently seen alongside colleagues like Charles Barkley and Greg Gumbel.
Smith’s insights not only stem from his successful NBA career but also from his impactful college years with the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Smith’s basketball journey began long before his television career. He played under the guidance of legendary high school coach Jack Curran and went on to join Michael Jordan at the University of North Carolina.
These experiences have shaped Smith’s perspective, allowing him to provide rich, informative commentary during the NCAA tournament.
Beyond his role at CBS, Smith’s net worth and popularity are of interest to many due to his various endeavors.
From being a two-time NBA champion to a respected sports commentator, Smith’s career achievements are noteworthy.
His contributions extend into commercial content and entertainment purposes, making him a multifaceted figure in the sports world.
For more on Kenny Smith’s role, check out CBS March Madness crew.
Who Is Kenny Smith?
Kenny Smith is a well-known announcer at CBS for college basketball. His career spans from his days as a professional basketball player to his current role as a commentator on “Inside the NBA.”
Where Did Kenny Smith Grow Up?
Kenny Smith was born on March 8, 1965, in Queens, New York.
He spent his early years in the LeFrak City neighborhood, a diverse and vibrant part of Queens.
As a young boy, Smith often played basketball in local parks, showing talent from an early age.
His high school years were spent at Archbishop Molloy High School, also in Queens.
There, he played under coach Jack Curran, gaining recognition for his skills and dedication.
His high school success led him to the University of North Carolina, where he played college basketball under renowned coach Dean Smith.
Where Does Kenny Smith Live?
Kenny Smith currently resides in Los Angeles, California.
The city is a hub for many sports commentators and former athletes, providing him with proximity to major broadcasting networks like CBS.
Living in Los Angeles allows Smith to be close to work while enjoying the lifestyle and opportunities the city offers.
His home is often a place for gatherings with friends, family, and colleagues from the sports world.
Living in such a vibrant city allows Smith to stay connected with the sports community and enjoy the amenities of a major metropolitan area.
Who Is Kenny Smith Married To?
Kenny Smith is married to Gwendolyn Osborne.
Osborne is a British-American actress and model, known for her work on “The Price Is Right” as a model and her various roles in movies and television.
The couple married in 2006 and have blended their families, each bringing children from previous relationships into their home.
They have two children together, a son named Malloy and a daughter named London.
Family is important to Smith, and he often shares moments from his personal life on social media, highlighting the close bond he shares with his wife and children.
Kenny Smith’s Basketball Career
Kenny Smith had a notable basketball career from his college days through his time in the NBA.
Where Did Kenny Smith Play College Basketball?
Kenny Smith attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
He played for the Tar Heels under the legendary coach Dean Smith.
Smith was a key player for the team, known for his quick speed, earning him the nickname “The Jet.”
During his time at North Carolina, Smith helped the Tar Heels to reach the NCAA Tournament multiple times.
This included a memorable run to the Final Four during his freshman year in 1984.
Did Kenny Smith Play In The NBA?
Smith had a successful NBA career, playing for several teams between 1987 and 1997.
He began with the Sacramento Kings, where he played as a point guard.
He also played for the Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Denver Nuggets.
Smith’s most notable achievements came during his time with the Houston Rockets, where he won two NBA championships.
Over his career, he earned the respect of his peers for his playmaking and leadership skills.
Did Kenny Smith Coach College Basketball?
After his playing days, Kenny Smith did not pursue a career in coaching college basketball.
Instead, he transitioned directly into broadcasting.
His deep knowledge of the game and his charisma made him a natural fit for television.
Smith’s insights are highly valued, and he regularly provides analysis on college games, including the NCAA Tournament and March Madness.
His commentary draws on personal experience and understanding of the game.
Did Kenny Smith Coach In The NBA?
Kenny Smith also never took on a coaching role in the NBA.
His post-playing career has been focused on sports commentary for networks like TNT.
As an analyst, he provides detailed game breakdowns, often sharing stories and tactics from his own playing days.
Smith’s transition from player to commentator has allowed him to stay connected to the NBA, sharing his perspective with a wide audience.
Fans appreciate his straightforward and engaging style, making complex strategies understandable for general viewers.
Kenny Smith’s Professional Broadcasting Career
Kenny “The Jet” Smith has had a prolific career in broadcasting, known for his insightful commentary and engaging on-screen presence.
What Network Has Kenny Smith Previously Worked For?
Kenny Smith has had a varied career, having worked for multiple sports networks over the years.
Most notably, he has been a key figure on TNT, where he co-hosted the popular show Inside the NBA.
His tenure at TNT has been marked by his charismatic insights and the chemistry he shares with fellow hosts Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, and Shaquille O’Neal.
Smith has also appeared as a basketball analyst for CBS Sports, contributing his expertise to college basketball coverage.
What Network Is Kenny Smith Currently Working For?
As of now, Kenny Smith is prominently seen on CBS, where he lends his basketball knowledge to their college basketball coverage.
His involvement with CBS includes studio coverage and live commentary, providing fans with expert analyses during crucial games.
Smith’s role at CBS has allowed him to broaden his audience and bring his unique perspective to college basketball.
Who Is Kenny Smith’s Broadcast Partner?
Kenny Smith frequently collaborates with a range of knowledgeable commentators.
On Inside the NBA, he is well-known for his partnership with Charles Barkley, Ernie Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal.
At CBS, he often works alongside respected names like Clark Kellogg, Greg Gumbel, and Seth Davis, offering fans a comprehensive and engaging analysis of the games.
Does Kenny Smith Want To Cover The NBA?
Kenny Smith has a deep-rooted passion for the NBA, as demonstrated by his longtime stint on Inside the NBA.
Though he currently covers college basketball for CBS, he has expressed a sustained interest in the NBA.
His enthusiasm for the professional league, including the analysis of its players and games, remains apparent in his work.
This dedication suggests that he maintains a strong connection to the NBA, despite his current focus on college basketball.
What Are Kenny Smith’s Future Prospects?
Looking ahead, Kenny Smith has several directions he could pursue.
While he continues to thrive at CBS, the ever-changing landscape of sports broadcasting presents new opportunities.
Future roles could include expanding his presence in digital media or even exploring production roles behind the scenes.
Smith has also hinted at potential ventures, which may involve broader participation in sports media and beyond.
Kenny Smith’s Major Achievements And Awards
Kenny Smith has garnered significant accolades during his broadcasting career.
He has been a part of the Emmy-winning team of Inside the NBA on TNT.
Smith’s transition from NBA player to esteemed commentator is a testament to his adaptability and expertise.
His contributions to sports broadcasting have solidified his status as a respected voice in the industry, evidenced by the longevity and impact of his career.
Similar Announcers To Kenny Smith
Several commentators share similarities with Kenny Smith in terms of influence and style.
Clark Kellogg, with his in-depth analysis on CBS, mirrors Smith’s ability to break down complex plays.
Ernie Johnson’s role on TNT provides a balanced, insightful commentary style akin to Smith’s.
Other notable names include Greg Gumbel and Adam Lefkoe, who both bring credibility and engaging content to their broadcasts.
Does Kenny Smith Do Private Speaking Engagements?
Yes, Kenny Smith is also known for his motivational speaking engagements.
He often discusses his journey from NBA player to broadcaster, sharing insights into leadership and teamwork.
These engagements are usually well-received, attracting a wide range of audiences who appreciate his firsthand experiences and valuable lessons.
His speeches often center on overcoming challenges, maintaining focus, and achieving excellence.
Does Kenny Smith Have A Podcast?
Currently, Kenny Smith does not host a podcast.
However, his presence in various media segments and guest appearances on shows and podcasts keep him actively engaged with audiences.
Given his experience and storytelling ability, a podcast could be a potential future endeavor, allowing Smith to explore new dimensions of sports commentary and personal insight.
What Is Kenny Smith’s Net Worth?
Kenny Smith, a former professional basketball player and current television basketball analyst, has built a substantial net worth through his various career endeavors.
How Much Is Kenny Smith’s Contract For?
Kenny Smith’s contract as a basketball commentator plays a significant role in his net worth.
His work with CBS and Turner Sports during the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament and the popular “Inside the NBA” show on TNT has been lucrative.
His current contract details are not fully public. However, such roles typically command multi-million dollar agreements given the show’s popularity and Emmy-winning status.
Smith’s continued presence on high-profile sports shows illustrates the substantial value networks see in him.
How Much Does Kenny Smith Make In Salary Per Year?
Kenny Smith’s annual salary from his work as a basketball analyst is a key contributor to his net worth.
Estimates suggest he earns around $4 million per year from his roles on “Inside the NBA” and CBS. This figure combines his salary from television work and other potential earnings from public appearances and endorsements.
His lengthy career in broadcasting has made him a staple in sports media, ensuring a steady and substantial income year after year.
This consistent salary has helped him amass a net worth of approximately $22 million.