History of Nick Smith Jr. in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 12, 2026

Nicholas Smith Jr. is an American professional basketball player currently with the Los Angeles Lakers, also playing for their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. He was a highly touted recruit, ranked #1 overall in the class of 2022 coming out of North Little Rock High School.

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Full Timeline

April 18, 2004: Birth of Nick Smith Jr.

On April 18, 2004, Nicholas Smith Jr. was born.

September 29, 2021: Commitment to Arkansas Razorbacks

On September 29, 2021, Nick Smith Jr. committed to play basketball for the Arkansas Razorbacks.

2022: Ranked #1 Recruit

In 2022, Nick Smith Jr. was named the #1 overall recruit in the class of 2022.

2022: Arkansas Razorbacks Season

In 2022, Nick Smith Jr. was projected to be a starting guard for the Arkansas Razorbacks.

2022: Selection to All-American Games

In 2022, Nick Smith Jr. was selected to play in the 2022 McDonald's All-American Boys Game and the Jordan Brand Classic.

2023: NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 Appearance

In 2023, Nick Smith Jr. helped Arkansas advance to the Sweet 16 in the 2023 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament.

2023: Drafted by Charlotte Hornets

In 2023, Nick Smith Jr. was selected with the 27th pick of the 2023 NBA draft by the Charlotte Hornets and signed with the team on July 2, 2023. Throughout his rookie season, he was assigned several times to the Greensboro Swarm.