Kenny Smith Takes Ownership Role in New NBL Team, Aiming to Nurture NBA Hopefuls

NEW YORK (AP) — Kenny Smith is set to take the helm of a new franchise within Australia's National Basketball League, focusing on the discovery and grooming of young players.

The ex-NBA star and TNT pundit was named this thursday as the chief of the league’s initiative, Next Stars, in North America. His duty primarily targets enhancing a program designed to be a conduit for young athletes hoping to become NBA players.

LaMelo Ball, before becoming the third overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets and subsequently Rookie of the Year, honed his skills in the NBL. Oklahoma City’s guard, Josh Giddey, serves as another testament to the league's effectiveness. Since the introduction of the Next Stars program in the 2018-19 season, the NBL has successfully propelled eight players into the NBA ranks.

"The NBL is carving out significant route to the NBA, demonstrating a consistent ability to guide young players to the draft," Smith remarked. "They saw in me the right fit to foster this young talent, supplying the much-needed mentorship and resources to help them grow professionally and make the elevation to the NBA."

Expectations are high for Alex Sarr, a center from France, to move up from the NBL as a leading prospect in the upcoming NBA draft this June.

Beyond the court activities and competitions, the Next Stars program also arms its players with vital life skills, offering financial management advice and media training.

The announcement of Smith’s team is poised to follow shortly. Presently, the league comprises 10 teams across Australia and New Zealand.