11 Saul Smith

Saul Smith was a point guard for the University of Kentucky Wildcats from 1997 to 2001, playing under his father, head coach Tubby Smith. Known for his leadership, court vision, and defensive effort, Smith was a key contributor for Kentucky during his college career.

Smith was born Saul Lamont Smith on April 14, 1979, in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and grew up around basketball, as his father, Tubby Smith, was a respected coach. He played high school basketball at Hapeville Charter Career Academy in Georgia, where he showcased his skills as a steady and intelligent point guard. When Tubby Smith became head coach at Kentucky in 1997, Saul joined the Wildcats as a walk-on before earning a scholarship.

Smith played four seasons at Kentucky, steadily growing into a significant role as the team’s starting point guard.

• As a freshman (1997-98), he was a reserve player on Kentucky’s 1998 NCAA National Championship team, earning a title in his first year.
• By his sophomore and junior seasons (1998-99, 1999-2000), Smith took on a larger role as a defensive specialist and facilitator. He became the starting point guard, known for his leadership and ability to run the offense.
• As a senior (2000-01), Smith averaged 7.2 points, 3.9 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, helping lead the Wildcats to the 2001 Sweet 16.

Although he was often criticized by fans due to his father being the coach, Smith was respected for his hustle, defense, and ability to distribute the ball effectively.

Smith lettered four years at Kentucky and started at point guard for the Wildcats in each of his final two seasons. He was part of winning three SEC Championships, three SEC Tournament titles, and one NCAA National Championship. He also captained an SEC All-Star team that went 4-1 vs. the Japanese Olympic team.

He ranks 10th all-time in Kentucky basketball history with 363 assists. He led the Wildcats in assists during both the 1999-00 and the 2000-01 seasons, and in steals with 51 during the 2000-01 season. He played in 143 games during his Wildcat career, starting 70 times.

After college, Saul Smith transitioned into coaching. He worked as an assistant coach under Tubby Smith at several schools, including Kentucky, Minnesota, and Texas Tech. He has remained involved in basketball coaching and player development.

Saul Smith is remembered as a steady, defensive-minded point guard who helped lead the Wildcats through multiple deep tournament runs. His role in Kentucky’s 1998 National Championship team and his leadership in later years made him an important figure in UK basketball history.