“Life is all about knowin yo worth, don’t stay nowhere u not wanted n appreciated,” was what the number 2 pick of the 2022 draft, NaLyssa Smith, said while addressing speculation regarding her future with the Indiana Fever. Last year (2024), it became pretty clear that Smith was no longer a key starter for the team as the playoffs approached. Her role with the Fever had become more uncertain, as she averaged only 24.8 minutes per game, with her scoring dropping to 10.6 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, a decline from her earlier seasons.
It went from bad to worse when NaLyssa Smith’s overseas stint with Zhejiang Golden Bulls was cut short, just months after she had signed with the team. Despite posting impressive numbers, her time with Zhejiang was not without controversy. Before her release, Smith was involved in a physical altercation during a preseason game. A shoving exchange and a ball-throwing incident with an opponent led to seven technical fouls being handed out during the match.
Naturally, the Fever made the move. Smith was sent to the Dallas Wings in a massive four-team trade, with the Fever landing Sophie Cunningham in return. While it was tough for the Fever to part ways with Smith, she was looking forward to the change! The Dallas Wings weren’t done making moves either, pulling off another trade to bring in DiJonai Carrington. But this deal was bigger than just basketball. Carrington and NaLyssa Smith, who have been dating since their Baylor days, were now reunited on the same team. Love and basketball? It doesn’t get any better!
With all eyes on the Dallas Wings after they drafted Paige Bueckers, fans shouldn’t forget that NaLyssa Smith is here to reignite her career. With the new season of the WNBA about to start in a few weeks, it gives us the perfect opportunity to learn more about the forward’s ethnicity and religion.
What is NaLyssa Smith’s ethnicity? Where is she from?
NaLyssa Smith was born on August 8, 2000, in San Antonio, Texas, United States, to Rodney and Nikki Smith. While information about her ethnicity isn’t readily available, it is presumed that she is of African-American descent. Unfortunately, we cannot confirm this information.
Which religion does Nalyssa Smith follow?
Unfortunately, there is no information available about NaLyssa Smith’s religious affiliation at this time. We will update you if any information becomes available.
Which high school did Nalyssa Smith attend?
NaLyssa Smith graduated from East Central High School, where she made a significant impact on the basketball court. As a senior, she averaged 23.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 3.4 blocks per game. Her standout performances earned her a five-star rating from ESPN and a ranking as the number 3 recruit in the country. Her good performances carried forward to college as well!
Transitioning from high school to college, Smith had offers from South Carolina, Ohio State, and Louisville before choosing Baylor. She said her decision was largely influenced by the supportive and light-hearted environment at Baylor, which felt like the right fit for her. “I liked that it was a small campus,” Smith shared. “I can get around places quickly. I liked Coach Mulkey. I think she’s super fun and funny. The team too, of course, they’re all cool.”
She finished her collegiate career with 2,048 points and a total of 1,098 rebounds, along with a championship to her name. This stellar performance led to her being drafted by the Indiana Fever as the second pick of the 2022 WNBA Draft.
The post What Is NaLyssa Smith’s Ethnicity & Religion? Digging Deeper Into Dallas Wings Star’s Nationality and Family Life. appeared first on EssentiallySports.
