“Life is all about knowin yo worth, don’t stay nowhere u not wanted n appreciated,” said NaLyssa Smith when rumors were linking her with a move away from the Indiana Fever in 2024. The Baylor sensation, who was drafted second overall by the Fever in 2022, had once been a cornerstone of the franchise. But over time, her role became smaller. Eventually, she was traded to the Dallas Wings, reuniting with her girlfriend, DiJonai Carrington. But those happy moments didn’t last very long.
On June 30, 2025, the Dallas Wings officially announced that they were trading NaLyssa Smith to the Las Vegas Aces in exchange for a 2027 first-round draft pick. Honestly, it’s been a rough couple of years for Smith. She has struggled to find consistency and never quite settled into a long-term role with any team.
But despite the setbacks, NaLyssa won’t let them define her. And how could she? With a support system as strong as her parents behind her, Smith has every reason to keep pushing forward. “We have always instilled in her to prove people wrong, don’t ever let people doubt you. Don’t let people think that you’re not better or you are not competing,” her mother had once said, which further proves the point that Smith isn’t someone who is going to quit so easily.
That said, this gives us the perfect opportunity to find out more about her parents. They’ve been her foundation since day one, always in her corner no matter what.
Who are NaLyssa Smith’s parents?
Smith was born on August 8, 2000, in San Antonio, Texas, to Nikki and Rodney Smith. NaLyssa’s father, Rodney, is a former professional basketball player, while her mother, Nikki, had a successful career as a model. Both have had fairly successful careers in their own field but the support for their daughter never stopped. They are her biggest cheerleaders.
You can always find Nikki and Rodney in the stands supporting their daughter every time she takes to the court. The bond between the three runs deep. In an interview with WRTV, Rodney revealed that they have a family group that is used to talk trash to each other, share funny videos, and make fun of each other.
Who is her father, Rodney?
As said above, Rodney is an ex-basketball player. He played professionally in countries like Australia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. According to him, his daughter might still not be capable of beating him! “She can’t beat me yet. I’m going to say it, if we play one-on-one, she might get me,” said Rodney. It’s always nice to see a dad hyping her daughter till the very end! And Rodney is definitely one of them.
Who is her mother, Nikki Smith?
Her mother was a former model and is quite active on Instagram, where she gives her followers a glimpse into her daily life. From family moments to personal updates, Nikki keeps it real with her 550-odd followers.
What is the nationality and ethnicity of NaLyssa Smith’s parents?
It goes without saying that both her parents are American citizens. Both have been born and raised in the country. However, when it comes to their ethnicity, there are no confirmed reports. It is assumed that they are both African-Americans.
Who is NaLyssa Smith’s Brother?
For those unaware, Smith has a big brother as well. His name is Rodney Smith II, and he was a former soccer player for the University of Saint Mary as well as the University of Houston at Victoria.
The post Who are NaLyssa Smith’s Parents? All about her Father Rodney, Mother Nikki Smith, and her Brother, Rodney Jr appeared first on EssentiallySports.
