He confessed he typically avoided schoolwork since reading, public speaking, and processing details felt much harder compared to his peers.
“I didn’t recognize how the brain is really a muscle and the more you work it out, the more powerful it’s going to get,” he said.Despite those
battles, Smith enrolled at North Carolina A&T in 2021 and devoted himself totally to education. He worked carefully with tutors a number of days every week, investing long hours studying, going to video conference sessions, and finishing assignments.There were sleep deprived nights, challenging coursework, and moments of disappointment, but he stayed disciplined throughout the process.Smith also signed up with the university’s golf group as a walk-on
player, though he consistently stressed that finishing stayed his primary objective. His previous golf coach, Richard Watkins, said Smith approached school with determination and severity.”He came to school to graduate,”Watkins said.One of Smith’s favorite courses was African-American Culture through Sports, which he stated changed the way he viewed individuals, culture, and compassion.”I wish I might start over as a rookie now knowing what I know now, “he explained.Smith revealed that another former NBA star, Ray Allen, influenced him to return to school after seeing Allen continue his own education while stabilizing life after basketball.Over the years, Smith slowly overcame his worry of education and built confidence in the class. What once felt difficult eventually ended up being a source of pride.Now 40 years of ages, Smith says he prepares to continue
his education by pursuing a master’s degree in the future. He also hopes his story motivates other individuals to challenge their worries and challenge themselves outside their comfort zones.
“I hope it motivates them to be more well-rounded as a person and not just as an athlete,” Smith said.”You’re still a person at the end of the day and you can get better in all areas and facets. “