Smits spent his entire professional career with the Pacers, becoming a central figure in the team's lineup. As a center, he was known for his soft shooting touch, particularly his ability to hit mid-range jump shots, which was somewhat unusual for a player of his size at the time. His offensive skills were complemented by his solid defensive play, making him a reliable player on both ends of the court.
Throughout his career, Smits was a consistent performer for the Pacers. He averaged double figures in scoring in each of his 12 seasons in the league, with his best scoring season coming in 1995-96 when he averaged 18.5 points per game. Smits was also a strong rebounder and shot-blocker, using his height to his advantage in the paint.
One of the highlights of Smits' career was his performance in the 1994 NBA Playoffs. The Pacers reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history, and Smits played a crucial role in their success. His ability to score and defend against some of the league's top centers helped the Pacers push the New York Knicks to a seven-game series, although they ultimately fell short of reaching the NBA Finals.
In 1998, Smits was selected to his first and only NBA All-Star Game, a testament to his skill and consistency over the years. That season, he averaged 16.7 points and 6.9 rebounds per game, helping lead the Pacers to another deep playoff run. The following year, Smits and the Pacers finally broke through to the NBA Finals, facing off against the Los Angeles Lakers. Although the Pacers were defeated in six games, Smits' performance throughout the playoffs was commendable.
Injuries began to take a toll on Smits as his career progressed, particularly issues with his feet, which are not uncommon for players of his stature. Despite these challenges, he remained a vital part of the Pacers' roster until his retirement in 2000. Over his career, Smits played in 867 regular-season games, amassing over 12,000 points and nearly 5,300 rebounds.
Rik Smits' legacy with the Indiana Pacers is remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike. His jersey number 45 has not been officially retired by the team, but his contributions to the franchise during his tenure have left a lasting impression. After retiring from professional basketball, Smits returned to a quieter life, focusing on his family and personal interests, including a passion for motocross racing.
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