For a long time, Kenny Smith has been a familiar face in the sports broadcasting world. The former NBA guard retired in 1997, but thanks to his role on Inside the NBA on TNT, he’s stayed in the spotlight ever since.
Smith joined TNT right after hanging up his sneakers and has been a key part of the broadcast team for nearly three decades. With 27 years in media, he’s built a strong presence—and a strong bank account to match. So, what does his net worth look like in 2025?
What Is Kenny Smith’s Net Worth in 2025?
Smith’s TV career has outlasted his playing days, and it’s paid off big-time. According to Celebrity Net Worth, his estimated net worth in 2025 is around $22 million.
How Much Did Kenny Smith Earn in the NBA?
Smith played 10 seasons in the NBA. During that time, he suited up for the Sacramento Kings, Atlanta Hawks, Houston Rockets, Detroit Pistons, Orlando Magic, and Denver Nuggets. According to HoopsHype, he earned nearly $12 million in salary throughout his career.
Kenny Smith’s NBA Career
Drafted sixth overall in 1987 by the Sacramento Kings, Smith made the NBA All-Rookie First Team. Not long after, he was traded to the Atlanta Hawks and then to the Houston Rockets—all within one year. That move to Houston proved to be the turning point.
With the Rockets, Smith won back-to-back NBA titles in 1994 and 1995. Over his career, he averaged 12.8 points, 2.0 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game.
In his final season, 1996-97, Smith played short stints with the Pistons and Magic before finishing with the Nuggets. He played 33 games for Denver and averaged 7.9 points per game. After that season, he officially retired.
Smith’s College Years at UNC
Before the NBA, Smith was a standout guard at the University of North Carolina. He earned a degree in Industrial Relations while building his game at a school known for basketball greatness. After Michael Jordan left UNC, Smith helped carry the torch.
As a freshman, he led the Tar Heels to a 28-3 record. In 1985, he helped take the team to the Elite Eight, where they lost to the eventual national champion Villanova Wildcats.
Kenny Smith’s Broadcasting Career
Since 1998, Smith has been part of “Inside the NBA” on TNT, working alongside Ernie Johnson, Charles Barkley, and later Shaquille O’Neal. The show has won multiple Sports Emmy Awards and is widely considered one of the best in sports television. It was even inducted into the Broadcasting and Cable Sports Hall of Fame.
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Smith also works as an analyst for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. In 2022, he signed a long-term contract extension to stay with TNT.
Further, he was also an analyst for MSG Network’s New York Knicks broadcasts from 2005 to 2008. More recently, he made a film appearance in “Hustle,” starring Adam Sandler and NBA player Juancho Hernangómez.
Endorsements and Business Ventures
Smith became a FanDuel brand ambassador in 2021. He’s also worked with Lowe’s since 2019 and has partnered with big names like Nike, Coca-Cola, and Taco Bell over the years.
He’s taken his business mind beyond endorsements. Smith runs basketball camps and is involved with youth training initiatives. He was recently named Head of Player Initiatives – North America for the NBL’s Next Stars program, which develops international players for the NBA.
Excited to make this official! I’m looking forward to being partnering with the NBL’s Next Stars program and to be fully invested in the growth of the NBL as a future owner of an expansion team. Learn more at https://t.co/8cXmM5AagO pic.twitter.com/c42gw1IkWb
— Kenny Smith (@TheJetOnTNT) April 6, 2024
As part of this role, he’ll become a part-owner of a future NBL expansion team. His job will focus on mentoring and preparing young talent for the NBA Draft.
Giving Back Through The Kenny Smith Foundation
Smith is also deeply involved in charity work. His Kenny Smith Foundation helps underprivileged kids access education and sports programs. He’s a strong supporter of social justice, youth development, and community-based outreach.
Whether it’s on the court, in the studio, or in the community, Kenny Smith has built a legacy that reaches far beyond basketball.