Jimmy Smitts

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Jimmy Smitts
Jimmy Smitts in Suns uniform (1988)
Jimmy Smitts in Suns uniform (1988)
Position Point Guard
Nickname Smitty, Manchild
Height ft 10 in (1.78 m)
Weight 157 lb (71 kg)
Nationality Flag of United States United States
Born April 20, 1968
Kalamazoo, Michigan
College Kalamazoo State
Draft 54th overall, 1988
Phoenix Suns
Pro career 1988 – 1996
Former teams Phoenix Suns (1988–1994)
Seattle SuperSonics (94–96)



James Emanuel Smitts (April 20, 1966 - ) Better known as Jimmy Smitts.

[edit] Early Life

Smitts was born on April 20, 1966 in Kalamazoo, Michigan to Thomas Smitts and Madaline Smitts. Jimmy is the oldest of 3 children, (1 sister Emily, 1 brother Tommy Jr.). Growing up Smitts played club basketball for the Kaly Krazies and attended high school at Kalamazoo Regional High School.

[edit] College Career

Smitts played his college ball at Kalamazoo State where he averaged 7.6 PPG. During his senior season he vaulted the 0-27 Mudhens over the 2-28 Muskegon College Tigers with a buzzer beater 3-pointer in double over time for a 56-55 victory, Kalamazoo's first victory in 3 years. This led to national prominence for Smitts, well sort of. He made ESPN Sportcenter's top 10 plays with this shot and the NBA took notice.