Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Houston Rockets cash out to keep forward Jabari Smith

Originally posted on Ball Exclusives
By Stephen M. Smith | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 8:17 PM ET

It lost Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks, but the Houston Rockets have made major moves this summer.

The franchise have its coach ( Ime Udoka ) for the long-term, re-signed center Steven Adams and point guard Fred VanVleet , and acquired the greatest bucket-getter of his generation in Kevin Durant . Houston wants to advance in the Western Conference for an opportunity at an NBA Championship. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the latest move from the Rockets. Houston holds on to forward Jabari Smith — extending him to a five-year, $122 million rookie contract.

Houston Rockets forward Jabari Smith Jr. intends to sign a five-year, $122 million rookie contract extension, sources tell ESPN. Rockets officials and Smith’s agent, Wallace Prather of LIFT Sports Management, negotiated the fully guaranteed deal through 2030-31 season. pic.twitter.com/S1hb9n0PRh

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 29, 2025

The move happened on Sunday as the former Auburn standout was taken at No. 3 overall in the 2022 NBA Draft.

Smith had a successful third season in Houston, averaging 12.2 points and seven rebounds on 43.8 percent shooting from the field. The 6-foot-10, 220-pounder also displayed range from outside, knocking down the 3-ball at 35.4 percent.

Smith, a former first-team All-SEC selection in 2022, recorded a career-high 82.5% in free-throw shooting last season.

He assisted the Rockets to 52 wins, matching it with Golden State in the first round of the Western Conference playoffs.

Houston loss the series, 3-4, but it has a very bright future with Smith.

This article first appeared on Ball Exclusives and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: