Rockets' Jabari Smith Jr. Speaks On Challenges Coming From Auburn University To Houston

It's no secret rookies will go through a mental challenge during their first season in the league. But continuous losing can make a player's inaugural campaign more difficult.

Houston Rockets' Jabari Smith Jr. is looking forward to his first NBA All-Star weekend. He will be one of three Rockets representing the franchise during the 2023 Jordan Rising Stars event in Salt Lake City.

But according to the Washington Post, the All-Star break would give the Auburn University prospect a chance to recuperate after a rough start to his NBA career.

"It’s been kind of tough for me.," Smith said. "Last year, we had a lot of wins. We were the best team in the country, ranked No. 1 at one point, and now, it’s kind of flip-flopped.

"It’s kind of tough, but you still have to try and find a way to stay motivated throughout the season with your teammates."

The Rockets entered the All-Star break with the league's worst record at 13-45. And after falling 133-96 to the Oklahoma City Thunder Wednesday night, Smith says the goal for the final 24 games will be about winning to build confidence heading into the off-season.

Smith finished the game with a team-high 15 points (4-5 FG, 2-4 3PT), nine rebounds, two blocks and a pair of steals. Smith is currently averaging 12.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.1 blocks through his first 55 games.

His best individual performance took place on Jan. 13 in a loss against the Sacramento Kings. Smith scored a career-best 27 points on 11-of-20 shooting, eight rebounds and three blocks.

"We’re not looking at the record," Smith said. "We’re looking at overall development, both the team development and staying with it. It’s still basketball."

You can follow Coty M. Davis on Twitter at @CotyDavis_24

Want the latest in news and insider information on the Houston Rockets? Click here

Follow Inside the Rockets on Facebook here

Make sure to subscribe to our weekly podcast Bleav In The Rockets today! Click here To Listen.

Follow Inside the Rockets on Twitter @InsideRocketsFN