Jabari Smith Jr. on Kevin Durant, Ime Udoka and Houston’s Next Step + Inside the Rockets Young Core | Chiney Today

Jabari Smith Jr. joins Chiney Ogwumike to talk about what’s next for the Houston Rockets, what he’s learned from playing alongside Kevin Durant, and why he believes there’s still another level to his game.

Jabari explains what makes KD’s work ethic different, why Fred VanVleet’s leadership is so important to Houston, what it’s really like playing for Ime Udoka, and why improving his ball handling is a major focus of his offseason. He also opens up about becoming a father, how his daughter has changed his outlook, and why he plans to bring her courtside when the Houston Comets arrive.

Then, Rockets sideline reporter Vanessa Richardson joins Chiney to take a deeper look at Houston’s roster. Vanessa shares what she’s seen from Jabari behind the scenes, including how he responded after losing his starting spot, and discusses Kevin Durant’s impact on the franchise, Alperen Sengun’s continued growth, and the enormous potential of Amen Thompson.

In this episode:

What Jabari has learned from Kevin Durant

Why ball handling could unlock the next level of Jabari’s game

Fred VanVleet’s importance to the Rockets

Playing for Ime Udoka and Houston’s physical identity

Jabari on becoming a father

How Jabari handled losing and eventually regaining his starting role

Kevin Durant’s impact on and off the floor in Houston

Alperen Sengun’s development