NaLyssa Smith, born on August 8, 2000, in San Antonio, Texas, is an American professional basketball player known for her dynamic presence on the court. She honed her skills at East Central High School in San Antonio, where she delivered impressive averages of 23.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game during her senior year. Her outstanding performance earned her recognition as a five-star recruit and the No. 3 prospect in the nation by ESPN.
Choosing to play collegiate basketball at Baylor University from 2018 to 2022, Smith made significant contributions to the Lady Bears. She was instrumental in securing the NCAA Division I Championship in 2019 and received numerous accolades throughout her college career, including the prestigious Wade Trophy in 2021, awarded to the nation’s top women’s college basketball player. In the 2022 WNBA Draft, Smith was selected second overall by the Indiana Fever. During her rookie season, she started all 32 games, averaging 13.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, which led to her inclusion in the WNBA All-Rookie Team.
In the 2022 WNBA Draft, Smith was selected second overall by the Indiana Fever. During her rookie season, she started all 32 games, averaging 13.5 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.4 assists per game, which led to her inclusion in the WNBA All-Rookie Team.
Off the court, Smith is in a relationship with fellow WNBA player DiJonai Carrington. The couple began dating in 2020 during their time at Baylor University and have maintained a supportive relationship, often sharing their journey and achievements on social media.
In her personal life, Smith comes from an athletic family. Her father, Rodney Smith, played college basketball at the University of Texas at San Antonio and had a professional career overseas. Her brother, De’An Smith, played soccer at the University of Saint Mary in Kansas and the University of Houston-Victoria.
As of February 2025, Smith continues to excel in her professional career with the Dallas Wings, following an offseason trade from the Indiana Fever. She remains a prominent figure in the WNBA, known for her athleticism and contributions to the sport
She is an American professional basketball player known for her dynamic presence on the court. Standing 6 feet 4 inches tall and weighing 185 pounds, she plays as a forward.
Early Life and High School Career
Smith attended East Central High School in San Antonio, where she showcased exceptional talent. As a senior, she averaged 23.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game. Her outstanding performance earned her a five-star recruit status and the No. 3 ranking by ESPN. She committed to Baylor University, choosing it over other prominent programs.
Collegiate Career at Baylor University
At Baylor, Smith’s impact was immediate. As a freshman, she played in all 38 games, contributing to the team’s NCAA Division I Championship win in 2019. Throughout her collegiate career, she amassed numerous accolades, including:
Wade Trophy (2021): Awarded to the best player in college women’s basketball.
Katrina McClain Award (2021, 2022): Recognizing the nation’s top power forward.
Big 12 Player of the Year (2021, 2022): Honored as the conference’s top player for two consecutive years.
Smith concluded her Baylor tenure with 2,048 points and 1,098 rebounds, becoming one of the most decorated players in the program’s history.
Professional Career
Indiana Fever (2022–2024): Selected as the second overall pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft, Smith earned a spot on the WNBA All-Rookie Team. In the 2024 season, she averaged 10.6 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 48.0%.
Dallas Wings (2025–Present): In February 2025, Smith was traded to the Dallas Wings as part of a four-team deal. This move reunited her with former Baylor teammate and current partner, DiJonai Carrington.
International Play
Smith has also showcased her skills internationally:
Galatasaray (2023–2024): Played in the Turkish Women’s Basketball Super League.
Zhejiang Golden Bulls (2024): Brief stint in the Women’s Chinese Basketball Association, cut short due to an ankle injury.
Personal Life
Beyond the court, Smith values her family deeply. Her father, Rodney, played basketball at the University of Texas at San Antonio, and her brother, Rodney Jr., played soccer at the University of Saint Mary. Smith is in a relationship with her Dallas Wings teammate, DiJonai Carrington.
NaLyssa Smith’s journey from a standout high school athlete to a professional basketball player exemplifies her dedication and passion for the sport. As she continues her career with the Dallas Wings, she remains a prominent figure in women’s basketball.
