Steve Smith's journey in professional basketball began when he was selected as the fifth overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft by the Miami Heat. A product of Michigan State University, where he had an outstanding college career, Smith quickly adapted to the professional level. His rookie season with the Heat showcased his scoring ability and playmaking skills, earning him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie First Team.
Smith's tenure with the Miami Heat lasted until 1994, when he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks. It was with the Hawks that he truly flourished as a player. During his time in Atlanta, Smith became known for his scoring prowess, particularly his three-point shooting and clutch performances. He was instrumental in leading the Hawks to several playoff appearances, and his efforts were recognized in 1998 when he was selected as an NBA All-Star.
In 1999, Smith was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers, where he continued to be a valuable asset. His veteran presence and scoring ability helped the Trail Blazers reach the Western Conference Finals in 2000. Although they fell short of reaching the NBA Finals, Smith's contributions were vital to the team's success during that period.
After his stint with the Trail Blazers, Smith played for several other teams, including the San Antonio Spurs, where he achieved the ultimate goal of winning an NBA Championship in 2003. His role with the Spurs was more focused on providing leadership and experience, which proved invaluable during their championship run.
Smith also had brief periods with the New Orleans Hornets and the Charlotte Bobcats before retiring from professional basketball. Over his career, he was known for his smooth shooting stroke, particularly from beyond the arc, and his ability to perform under pressure. His basketball IQ and leadership qualities were highly regarded by teammates and coaches alike.
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