Sixers News and Features

Catchin' Up with Jason Smith

We sat down with Jason Smith during one of his off days over the summer and listened in on his workout regiments and the plans he has during his very first NBA offseason.

After being selected by the 76ers in the first round of the 2007 NBA Draft, Jason Smith stepped in right away and helped lead his team to the NBA Playoffs. It was a memorable season for him and one that he will remember forever.

“I was very fortunate to be on a team that went to the playoffs,” Smith said. “We did really well. Our team had great people, great personalities, we all meshed together really well and hopefully we can have a great group this next coming season.”

After a long but exciting season, Smith took some time off after the playoff run to spend time with his family back home, including another trip to work out with some teammates.

“I [went back to Colorado] for about two and a half weeks,” said Smith. “Last week I went to Georgia to work out with Lou Williams and Thaddeus [Young] and Rodney [Carney] and we worked out with Mark Price. Then we came back on Saturday to work out up here in Philly.”

Smith will be working out in Philadelphia until July 3, and then he will travel to Las Vegas for summer league from July 6-17. Following summer league, Smith will go back home to Colorado and work out leading to his return to Philadelphia. However, Summer League is something that Smith is looking forward to.

“Go in there and compete,” said Smith of his summer league plans. “It’s my second year so now I know I have to go in there with a little bit more of a presence and let it be known.”

When asked about any expectations for the 2008-09 season, Smith had one thing on his mind.

“Get back to those playoffs.”