Ross Dwyer Dennis Smith Jr is a rising star — a high-flying point guard for the Knicks and the runner-up in 2019’s NBA Slam Dunk Contest — but his hometown of Fayetteville is always on his mind. “The Ville” is mere hours from Charlotte, so Smith and Under Armour made a trip back over All-Star Weekend to completely renovate the basketball courts the guard spent endless hours on as a hoops-crazed youngster. The Seabrook Park courts at Smith Recreation Center received a stunning facelift, being transformed from a standard court you’d see anywhere in America to a gospel of the game, all above black and orange asphalt. Smith christened the courts with a thunderous slam dunk, and then lead the kids in attendance through drills, skills challenges, and more interactive experiences. A carnival-style atmosphere permitted the entire afternoon as well — a fitting touch, as Smith’s love for the game was on full display.
Fayetteville has already produced esteemed products like Smith himself and J.Cole — who Smith flew over in the dunk contest on his way to a perfect 50 score — so it’s quite possible that Fayetteville’s next legend will grow up hooping on those courts, just like the aforementioned hometown heroes. Check out images of the launch event + a before/after of the court below, and stay tuned here for more info on the newest UA Basketball silhouettes like the Curry 6.
