When J.R. Smith stepped away from the NBA in 2020, most fans assumed he would fade into retirement or maybe join a sports network as a commentator. After all, he had already earned two championship rings, was named the NBA’s Sixth Man of the Year in 2013, and spent 16 seasons playing alongside legends like LeBron James. His last game came during the 2020 NBA Finals with the Los Angeles Lakers.
But instead of following a traditional post-retirement path, Smith chose something different. He went back to school.
In 2021, Smith enrolled at North Carolina A&T State University and joined the men’s golf team as a freshman walk-on. It was an unexpected move from someone known for his flair on the basketball court, but he took it seriously. His commitment paid off—he was named the university’s Academic Athlete of the Year, earning praise not only for his performance on the course, but for his efforts in the classroom.
“It’s been a journey of discipline and growth,” Smith told The New York Times. “I wanted to show myself and others that it’s never too late to try something new.”
Now, he’s extending that mindset into the media space. Smith is the co-host of the Par 3 Podcast with Stephen Malbon, co-founder of Malbon Golf. The show blends conversations about golf, lifestyle, and personal development, offering listeners a mix of humor, insight, and authenticity. It’s designed for golf lovers at all levels and anyone navigating change in adulthood.
What makes Smith’s story compelling is how grounded it is. Yes, he’s an NBA champion. But he’s also a college student learning how to manage assignments, improve his golf game, and explore new passions. He’s showing that growth doesn’t stop after a successful career and that curiosity and commitment still matter, no matter your age or background.
J.R. Smith’s second act is less about reinvention and more about rediscovery. It’s a reminder that the journey doesn’t end when one chapter closes. Sometimes, it just starts a little differently than expected.
Check out his recent collaboration with Oakley in a recent IG post here.
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