NBA's Sixth Man Has Local Roots

During his high school basketball career JR Smith went from Millstone to Trenton and neighboring Lakewood before finally heading to Newark on his way to the NBA.

On Monday it was announced that Smith was named the Sixth man of the year as the top reserve in the league. Coming off the bench for the New York Knicks Smith averaged just over 18 points per game and scored at least 20 points in 29 of his 80 games this year. 

In a story on ESPN.com Smith said he was honored by the recognition. "I just wanted to show everybody that I could be a team guy and it's all about the team," he said. 

Smith spent the start of his professional career in New Orleans and Denver before arriving at Madison Square Garden for the 2011-2012 season. He was drafted by the Hornets out of St. Benedict's Prep in Newark but has also stayed close to his Monmouth County roots. 

Sgt. Chris Hill of the Howell Police Department said that while Smith did not play in the local PAL league he has been an important figure for the group. "He supported us and our mission," he said. "He has always been there when we needed to help others."

That support has included traveling with the PAL volunteers when the went to help in places like New Orleans, Oklahoma City and New Orleans. During those trips Smith would give out gifts and prizes during special events and also gave motivational talks to the kids involved.