Former Charlotte Hornets first-round pick Nick Smith Jr. has signed a one-year contract with EuroLeague giants Real Madrid. The guard, who played two of his three NBA seasons in Charlotte, will now continue his career overseas.
Nick Smith Jr. has agreed to a one-year deal with Real Madrid, a club renowned for its success in European basketball. The signing was confirmed by NBA insider Michael Scotto. Smith Jr. Spent the first two seasons of his professional career with the Charlotte Hornets after being selected in the first round of the 2023 NBA Draft.
During his 111 appearances for the Hornets, the former Arkansas Razorback averaged 8.0 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. His most productive season was 2024-25, where he posted averages of 9.9 points, 2.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 0.3 steals. He played last season with the Los Angeles Lakers, appearing in 30 games and averaging 12.5 minutes per contest.
In Madrid, Smith Jr. Joins a roster featuring several former NBA players. The team includes Damian Jones, Chuma Okeke, Usman Garuba, Max Shulga, and veteran guard Facundo Campazzo. This environment offers him a chance to compete at a high level in a different league.
The Hornets' front office is undoubtedly focused on the present squad and its recent performance.
Smith Jr.'s departure is a footnote in the team's current trajectory. His time in Charlotte, while showing flashes of scoring ability, ultimately did not lead to a long-term role. The Hornets have since moved on with other backcourt options, making his overseas move a natural next step for his career.
For Nick Smith Jr., the challenge is to establish himself as a key contributor for one of Europe's most prestigious clubs. Real Madrid competes for domestic and continental titles every year, providing a high-pressure environment. Success there could potentially reopen doors to the NBA in the future.
For the Charlotte Hornets, the immediate focus remains on finishing the season strong and evaluating the roster. Player development and strategic planning for the offseason will be priorities as they look to build a consistent playoff contender.
The move shows a common path for players seeking more playing time and a different competitive experience. While Smith Jr.'s chapter with the Hornets is closed, his development in a top European league will be watched by those who followed his early NBA career in Charlotte.
