The JuJu Watkins lookalike USC Trojans freshman Kennedy Nicole Smith became a new addition to the 2x National champions. And right off the bat, she has shown some tremendous talent. The guard has averaged, 10 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game as USC (11-1) ranks fifth in the Big Ten. With every passing game, the 18-year-old continues to impress everyone with the skills instilled in her since childhood by her athletic parents.

Kennedy Smith, who was unavailable for four weeks returned in her game against the UConn. In a nail-biter that USC won by just two points, Smith made her presence felt with 9 points, 3 rebounds, and a blocked shot. Beyond the stats, her relentless defense was a game-changer—one of those efforts that doesn’t always make the box score but makes all the difference on the court. But how has her family helped her become the star that she is today?

A basketball legacy in the making

Born on January 21, 2006, in Fullerton, California, Smith grew up in a tight-knit family as the daughter of Monica Smith. Kennedy is one of five siblings, sharing her life with Randolph Jr., Paris, Jordan, and Aleisha. Interestingly, the basketball-fever doesn’t end with the 6-ft-1 guard.

Her brother RJ is also following a similar path in basketball, making a name for himself as a sophomore for the Colorado Buffaloes. This season, he’s proven to be a key player, averaging 7.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game.

And this is not it! Kennedy’s passion for basketball runs in the family. Her mother, Monica, was a standout player at Cal State Los Angeles during her college days and was a college teammate of Tina Slatinsky Ball, the mother of the Ball brothers — Lonzo, LiAngelo, and LaMelo. Hence, this blood connection only further inspired Kennedy to pursue the sport.

Her father, Randolph, who passed away a decade ago after a courageous battle with cancer, also left a lasting legacy during his time at Eastern Washington.

Monica stated “I think they’re pretty much the same, very competitive, They both have the same work ethic. I think Kennedy got most of her work ethic from R.J.” During RJ’s first two years at Damien, his sister Kennedy was a constant presence, often cheering him on from the sidelines.

“It was always a rush to get to his game,” Kennedy said. “I always enjoyed watching him play. I love watching basketball.” 

Since Kennedy couldn’t attend all-boys, Damien, the search for the right school began. Etiwanda quickly became the perfect fit. During middle school, Kennedy and her mom, Monica, were regulars at Etiwanda games, showing their support from the stands.

Kennedy Smith’s journey to glory

In her time with the Eagles, Smith made history as she became the first Gatorade California Girls Basketball Player of the Year from Etiwanda High. As a senior, she put up impressive numbers, averaging 20.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 2.1 steals, and 1.8 blocks per game. Her outstanding performance helped lead the Eagles to an incredible 30-3 record, taking them to the 2024 CIF statewide Open Division title game.

As Etiwanda’s all-time leading scorer, she made a lasting mark on the school’s basketball history, setting a record with a remarkable 44-point performance. She played a key role in helping Etiwanda secure the 2023 Open Division State Championship and the 2022 Southern Section title. Off the court, she also shined in club basketball with Cal Sparks, where she led the team to a Nike EYBL title.

Kennedy Smith’s impressive high school career was filled with milestones. She was named California State Freshman of the Year in 2021, Sophomore of the Year in 2022, Junior of the Year in 2023, and Senior of the Year in 2024.

By the time she finished her prep career, she had racked up 2,122 points, 912 rebounds, 351 steals, 303 blocks, and 286 assists, Kennedy Smith left a lasting legacy on the court with her incredible high school career. Ahead of her were new challenges and opportunities as she prepared to take on the world of college basketball.

The 6-1 wing from Etiwanda High School officially signed her letter of intent on November 14, committing to join coach Lindsay Gottlieb’s Trojans. Ranked as the No. 6 recruit in the nation, Kennedy is ready to take her talents to the next level as she embarks on her career as a Trojan.

“Kennedy has the full package, defensive tenacity, offensive skill, size, athleticism. But what sets her apart further is her competitive drive,” Gottlieb said of Smith.

“She is a winner. With the ability to play and defend multiple positions, she is going to be an electric player in the Galen Center. Kennedy’s decision to stay home will have a lasting impact on our program, and is really significant as we take steps to become a national power in women’s basketball.”

Recently, she brought home a gold medal with Team USA at the 2024 FIBA women’s U18 AmeriCup, winning against Canada (80-69) and overcoming the final obstacle. Kennedy Smith was a standout in the gold-medal game, leading Team USA’s offense with 18 points and 3 steals, playing a crucial role in their victory.

Kennedy Smith’s journey at USC reflects the strong athletic legacy of her family. Kennedy drew inspiration from her mom, Monica, a former college basketball player, and her late father, Randolph, fueling her drive and hunger through her upbringing. Supported by her family, she continues to shine both on and off the court.