About
Biography
Ellsworth Smith is a retired professional basketball player known for his significant contributions to the sport in the mid-20th century. Born on March 15, 1950, in Chicago, Illinois, Smith showcased exceptional talent during his high school career at Chicago Vocational Career Academy. He went on to play college basketball at the University of Illinois, where he earned All-American honors and led his team to several NCAA tournament appearances.
Smith was selected in the second round of the 1972 NBA Draft, beginning his professional career with the Atlanta Hawks. Over the course of his career, he played for multiple teams, including the Portland Trail Blazers and the New York Knicks, becoming known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court. Smith was a key player during his time with the Trail Blazers, contributing to their playoff runs and establishing himself as a reliable shooting guard.
After retiring from professional basketball in 1982, Smith remained active in the sport by coaching youth teams and mentoring aspiring athletes. His legacy is marked not only by his on-court achievements, which include an NBA All-Star selection in 1975, but also by his commitment to community engagement and promoting the game at the grassroots level. Smith is remembered as an influential figure in basketball, inspiring future generations of players.