Auburn Tigers Product Jabari Smith Jr. Secures Massive $122 Million Contract Extension With the Houston Rockets Through 2029 NBA Season

Former Auburn basketball sensation Jabari Smith Jr. has officially cashed in on his rising stardom, agreeing to a lucrative $122 million contract extension with the Houston Rockets. The news, confirmed by multiple NBA insiders, solidifies Smith’s place as a cornerstone for the Rockets franchise and serves as a proud moment for Auburn fans still following his professional journey.

Smith, who starred for the Auburn Tigers during the 2021-2022 college basketball season, has steadily evolved into one of the most promising young forwards in the NBA. His combination of size, shooting touch, and defensive versatility made him an appealing prospect when Houston selected him with the third overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft. Now, after two full seasons of growth and promise, the Rockets are showing their faith in his potential with a long-term extension that secures him through the 2028-2029 NBA campaign.

The $122 million deal spans four additional seasons beyond his rookie contract, averaging over $30 million per year. It’s a significant financial commitment for the Rockets, but one they believe is well worth it considering Smith’s trajectory. At only 21 years old, Smith still has room to grow, yet he has already become one of the franchise’s key building blocks alongside other young stars like Jalen Green, Alperen Sengun, and Amen Thompson.

For Auburn fans, this extension serves as another reminder of the program’s rising influence on the NBA stage. Jabari Smith Jr. was a central figure in Auburn’s 2021-2022 campaign that saw the Tigers climb to the No. 1 national ranking for the first time in school history. His versatility, poise, and elite shooting ability made him a matchup nightmare at the collegiate level, and his skill set has translated well to the NBA’s fast-paced, positionless style of play.

Smith’s rookie season with Houston had its ups and downs, as is common for most young players transitioning to the professional ranks. However, his sophomore year was where he truly began to flourish. He showcased significant improvements in his offensive efficiency, three-point shooting, and overall confidence on the court. His ability to stretch the floor, defend multiple positions, and rebound at a high level has made him invaluable to the Rockets’ ongoing rebuild.

The extension indicates that Houston envisions Smith as a long-term piece of their puzzle as they aim to return to playoff contention in the highly competitive Western Conference. General Manager Rafael Stone praised Smith’s work ethic and development, stating, “Jabari has shown the maturity, drive, and talent necessary to be a leader for this team. We believe his best basketball is still ahead of him, and we’re excited to watch him continue to grow in a Rockets uniform.”

Smith’s defensive prowess has been particularly noteworthy. His ability to guard positions two through five has given Houston flexibility in their defensive schemes. His 6-foot-11 frame, combined with lateral quickness and basketball IQ, allows him to switch onto guards while also providing rim protection. Offensively, his smooth shooting stroke—especially from beyond the arc—has made him one of the more dangerous stretch forwards in the league.

During the 2023-2024 NBA season, Smith averaged 17.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game, while shooting nearly 39% from three-point range. Those numbers represented significant growth from his rookie campaign and positioned him as one of the breakout young players in the league.

The Rockets’ investment in Smith also reflects their broader strategy of developing a young, dynamic core rather than relying heavily on veteran free-agent signings. With the likes of Jalen Green, Sengun, Thompson, and now a secured Jabari Smith Jr., the Rockets hope to build sustained success organically. Houston has also made strategic moves to add experienced players who can mentor the young roster, creating a balanced environment for development.

Auburn head coach Bruce Pearl reacted to the news with pride, emphasizing what Smith’s journey represents for the Tigers basketball program. “Jabari represents everything we want Auburn basketball to stand for—hard work, humility, and high-level performance,” Pearl shared. “Seeing him succeed in the NBA and now being rewarded with a contract like this is incredible for him, his family, and Auburn University.”

Smith’s rise also adds to Auburn’s growing reputation as a pipeline to the NBA. In recent years, the Tigers have produced multiple professional players, with Smith leading the way as arguably the most high-profile prospect in program history. His success story enhances Auburn’s recruiting pitch and demonstrates to future prospects that the university can prepare them for both college excellence and NBA stardom.

For Smith, the extension is not just about the money—though the $122 million figure certainly turns heads. It’s also a validation of the work he’s put in since declaring for the draft after just one collegiate season. Known for his mature approach, strong family support system, and relentless dedication to improvement, Smith has never been one to rest on his laurels. Teammates and coaches frequently commend his approach to the game, noting that his success stems as much from his preparation and mindset as from his natural gifts.

“This is just the beginning,” Smith remarked following the announcement of his extension. “I’m grateful to the Rockets organization for believing in me, but I know I’ve got a lot more work to do. My goal has always been to be one of the best players in the league and to help this team win championships. This contract means a lot, but it’s also motivation to keep pushing.”

The Rockets are banking on Smith becoming not just a solid contributor, but a future All-Star and key figure in their pursuit of relevance in the Western Conference. With the NBA evolving into a league dominated by versatile, two-way forwards, Smith fits the prototype perfectly. His combination of size, athleticism, and shooting ability makes him a matchup problem for opposing teams, while his defensive versatility is essential in an era where switching and spacing define the game.

Houston fans have also embraced Smith, recognizing his potential and appreciating his commitment to improving the franchise’s fortunes. Though the Rockets have endured several rebuilding seasons since the departure of James Harden, the combination of young talent and growing experience offers hope that better days lie ahead.

For Auburn alumni and fans, Smith’s extension is another chapter in what has already been a remarkable basketball journey. From leading the Tigers to SEC dominance, to becoming a top NBA Draft pick, and now securing generational wealth through his new contract, Smith embodies the blueprint for success that many young athletes aspire to follow.

As Smith continues to mature and his role with the Rockets expands, expectations will undoubtedly rise. Houston’s front office has made clear that they view him as integral to their long-term plans, and with financial security now in place, Smith can focus entirely on refining his game and elevating both himself and his team.

The four-year, $122 million extension not only changes Jabari Smith Jr.’s life but also reinforces the idea that Auburn can produce elite talent ready to thrive on basketball’s biggest stage. For Rockets fans, it’s a commitment to a brighter future built around young, homegrown stars. And for Smith, it’s both a reward for what he’s accomplished and a challenge to reach even greater heights.

In a league where potential often defines opportunity, Jabari Smith Jr. has turned potential into production—and now, into prosperity. Auburn fans, Houston faithful, and basketball observers everywhere will be watching closely as Smith embarks on the next phase of his already impressive career.