Who is the man behind the mic and the hardwood, and what does his life beyond the court truly entail? Kenny Smith, known as "The Jet," is a multifaceted figure who has not only soared in the world of professional basketball but has also navigated the complexities of life, love, and family, leaving an indelible mark on both the sports and entertainment industries.
Born in Jamaica, Queens, New York, Smith's journey has been one of remarkable achievements, from his days as a star on the court to his current role as a celebrated sports commentator. His career has seen him rack up accolades and victories, but his life off the court has also been a subject of interest, particularly his relationships and family. This article explores the life of Kenny Smith and the women who played important roles in it.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kenneth "Kenny" Smith |
| Date of Birth | March 8, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Brooklyn, New York |
| Nicknames | "The Jet" |
| Height | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) |
| Position | Point Guard |
| NBA Draft | 1987, Round 1, Pick 6, Sacramento Kings |
| NBA Career | 1987-1997 |
| Teams Played For | Sacramento Kings, Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, Denver Nuggets |
| Achievements | Two-time NBA Champion (Houston Rockets), NBA All-Rookie First Team (1988), Current NBA Analyst for TNT |
| Marital Status | Divorced (twice married) |
| First Wife | Dawn Reavis |
| Second Wife | Gwendolyn Osborne Smith |
| Children | Five (with Gwendolyn Osborne) |
| Education | University of North Carolina |
| Current Profession | Sports Commentator (TNT), Entrepreneur |
| Net Worth | Approximately $16 million |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Reference | NBA.com |
Kenny Smith's journey into the world of professional basketball began with his selection by the Sacramento Kings in 1987. He played for several teams throughout his ten-year NBA career, including the Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Denver Nuggets. Smith was a key player, contributing significantly to his teams, most notably as a key member of the Houston Rockets during their championship runs. Throughout his career on the hardwood, he amassed accolades and victories.
His time with the Houston Rockets is perhaps the most defining period of his playing career. Smith's performance was instrumental in securing two NBA championships for the Rockets. His talent was evident from the beginning, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team in 1988. After retiring in 1997, Smith transitioned to a successful career in sports broadcasting, where he's been a fixture on TNT, providing insightful analysis and commentary.
But beyond the court, Smith's personal life has also drawn public attention. His relationships, particularly his marriages, have been a significant part of his story. Smith first married Dawn Reavis, but the relationship did not endure. The reasons behind their divorce were never publicly disclosed, but both Smith and Reavis moved on to flourish in their respective careers.
Later, Kenny Smith married Gwendolyn Osborne. Their marriage, which began on September 8, 2006, brought together two individuals from different worlds. Osborne, a former model and television personality, was known for her work on the popular game show "The Price Is Right". Their union was a significant chapter in their lives, filled with love, challenges, and growth. Their family life, featuring five children, was even showcased in the reality TV series "Meet The Smiths" in 2015, which aired on the TBS network. The show invited cameras into their Encino, California, home, offering a glimpse into their family dynamics.
However, the marriage to Gwendolyn Osborne ended in divorce in 2018. The separation led to discussions surrounding Smith's financial responsibilities, including an "equalization payment" of $1,140,000 to his ex-wife, as revealed by legal documents. This development highlighted the complexities of celebrity relationships and their dissolution.
Gwendolyn Osborne, beyond her role as a wife and mother, has carved out her own career path. She began her career as a model, and also holds a joint ownership position in the Smith production company, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit. Her presence on "The Price is Right" as a supermodel for 12 years, from 2005 until 2017, further solidified her public profile. She is active on social media, often sharing insights into her work and personal life, as well as posting about her work and is often featured in the instagram posts of her daughter Kayla Brianna.
Smiths development as a shooter and ballhandler credits former South Carolina State star Bobby Lewis with his development as a shooter and ballhandler. He began his career in the league with the Sacramento Kings in 1987 and retired in 1997. Following this, what started off with turner sports in 1998 has continued to this day when the company has been renamed tnt sports.
Kenny Smith's life represents a blend of success, both on and off the basketball court. From his remarkable achievements as "The Jet" to his role as a dedicated sports analyst, Smith has proven his versatility and adaptability. Despite the changes in his personal life, including two marriages and divorces, Smith continues to be a prominent figure in the sports world, his legacy secured both in the annals of basketball and in the hearts of fans who have followed his career. His story is a reminder that even the most celebrated figures face the same trials and tribulations that shape the human experience.
