Top 20 former Michigan State Spartans to play in the NBA
By Riley Nisbet
6. Steve Smith
After a successful four years at Michigan State, Steve Smith quickly adapted to the playing style of the NBA with little need for a transition. Smith contributed right away after being drafted fifth overall in 1991 by the Miami Heat.
In his first season, Smith averaged an even 12 points and dished out 4.6 assists per game, earning him a spot on the 1991-92 NBA All-Rookie First Team.
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Scoring was the strongest aspect of Smith’s game, and something he remained consistent at across his career, especially from 3-point range, where he finished top five in percentage twice and led the league with 47 percent once. For his career, Smith was a 36 percent 3-point shooter.
He averaged at least 11.6 points per game in 11 of his 14 seasons (the three under this threshold being his final three seasons when his utilization dropped).
For his career, Smith averaged 14.3 points per game, but averaged at least 15 ppg in nine of his 14 seasons.
In 1998, Smith was selected to play in the NBA All-Star game as a member of the Atlanta Hawks, and, in 2002-03, won his only NBA title as a member of the San Antonio Spurs.