No, Dennis Smith Jr. and Dorian Finney-Smith are not biologically related despite their shared last name and iconic “brotherhood”.
While they frequently refer to each other as brothers, their connection is a deep personal friendship forged as teammates on the Dallas Mavericks during the 2017–18 season.
Dennis Smith Jr. hails from Fayetteville, North Carolina, while Dorian Finney-Smith is from Portsmouth, Virginia.
This article examines their shared “DaSmithWay” philosophy, their 2023 reunion in Brooklyn, and their current professional paths in 2026, where Finney-Smith plays for the Charlotte Hornets and Smith Jr. competes in the G League.
Are Dennis Smith Jr. and Finney-Smith Related by Blood?
While the shared surname and undeniable chemistry lead many to assume a family connection, their lineages are entirely separate. Their bond is a choice rooted in mutual respect rather than a biological requirement.
Different Geographical and Family Backgrounds
The two athletes grew up in different states with distinct family histories. Dennis Smith Jr. is a native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he rose to prominence as a high school basketball legend.
In contrast, Dorian Finney-Smith hails from Portsmouth, Virginia. Although these locations are geographically close in the American South, there is no overlap in their family trees.
Their upbringing in these regions contributed to their shared “out the mud” mentality, but their parents and relatives are not the same.
Why Fans Often Confuse the Two Players
The confusion primarily stems from the players’ own public displays of affection and their language. They frequently use the term “brothers” to describe one another in interviews and across social media platforms.
Additionally, their identical last names and the fact that they entered the spotlight together as young pillars for the Dallas Mavericks created a narrative of a “package deal” in the minds of the public.
Over time, this grew into a popular misconception that they were siblings, a myth they have clarified while still maintaining their tight-knit personal relationship.
How the Dennis Smith Jr. and Dorian Finney-Smith Bond Began
The professional partnership of these two athletes started during a period of significant change for the Dallas Mavericks franchise. It was in this high-pressure environment that their friendship was solidified.
Meeting in the Dallas Mavericks Training Room
The two first met during the 2017–18 season in the Mavericks’ training room. Dennis Smith Jr. was a highly anticipated rookie, having been drafted 9th overall in 2017, while Finney-Smith was entering his second year after going undrafted in 2016.
Interestingly, Finney-Smith already knew of Smith Jr.’s reputation because he had attended school in Virginia near where Smith Jr.’s cousin lived.
This pre-existing awareness of each other’s talent provided an immediate foundation for mutual respect as they began their professional journey together.
Navigating a Rebuilding Franchise Together
At the time, the Mavericks’ roster was largely comprised of older veterans, leaving Smith Jr. and Finney-Smith as the only two primary young players on a rebuilding team.
This age discrepancy with the rest of the squad naturally pushed them toward each other as they navigated the challenges of the league.
They shared a humble mindset and recognized that they both came from similar backgrounds, which fostered an environment where they could rely on one another for support on and off the court.
Understanding the DaSmithWay Basketball Philosophy
The duo famously coined the phrase “DaSmithWay” to describe their operational approach to the game. This philosophy has defined their careers and impacted their playing styles significantly.
| Philosophy Concept | Application and Impact |
|---|---|
| Defensive Mindset | DFS helped transition DSJ from a pure offensive slasher to a tenacious defender. |
| The “Dog-Like” Approach | A commitment to a hard-nosed, relentless style of play in every game. |
| Family Involvement | The bond is so deep that DSJ’s cousin has “DaSmithWay” tattooed to honor it. |
| Mutual Accountability | They push each other relentlessly to maintain professional standards. |
This shared philosophy focuses on grit and a relentless work ethic. Smith Jr. has specifically credited Finney-Smith for helping him evolve his game, moving away from being just a high-flying scorer to becoming one of the most feared perimeter defenders in professional basketball.
This “DaSmithWay” mentality isn’t just about statistics; it’s about a lifestyle and a commitment to their craft that has sustained them through various career transitions.
Reunited in New York: The Brooklyn Nets Chapter
After years of playing on separate teams following Smith Jr.’s trade from Dallas in 2019, the “brothers” were finally reunited in Brooklyn ahead of the 2023–24 season.
Anchoring Brooklyn’s Defensive Identity
When Smith Jr. signed with the Brooklyn Nets, he joined Finney-Smith, who was already a key part of the rotation. Their time together in Brooklyn allowed them to anchor the team’s defensive identity side-by-side.
Their unique chemistry allowed them to communicate effectively on the floor, anticipating each other’s movements in a way that few teammates can.
This defensive synergy was a highlight of the season, reminding fans of the chemistry they first displayed years earlier in Dallas.
Life and Friendship Off the Court
The reunion in New York City extended far beyond the basketball court. They spent the season exploring the city together and were known for holding joint press conferences that showcased their humor and deep connection.
This period reaffirmed to the public that their bond was not just a relic of their rookie years but a lifelong commitment.
For many observers, seeing them back together validated the idea that they were a “package deal” whose combined impact was greater than the sum of its parts.
Career Profiles: How the Smith Duo Compares
While they are extremely close personally, their roles on the court are quite different, with each providing distinct strengths to their respective rosters.
| Feature | Dennis Smith Jr. | Dorian Finney-Smith |
|---|---|---|
| NBA Position | Point Guard | Forward / Wing |
| Draft Pedigree | 2017: Round 1, Pick 9 (Dallas) | 2016: Undrafted free agent |
| College | NC State | Virginia Tech / Florida |
| Primary Strength | Explosive playmaker; point-of-attack defense | “3-and-D” specialist; versatile wing |
Dennis Smith Jr. has built his reputation on elite athleticism and the ability to pressure ball-handlers, whereas Dorian Finney-Smith is valued for his shooting and multi-positional defensive versatility.
These differing skill sets allowed them to complement each other perfectly during their tenures as teammates, as they could cover different areas of the floor while maintaining a unified defensive intensity.
Where Are They Now? Professional Status in 2026
As of 2026, the professional paths of these two friends have diverged, with each continuing his career in a different environment.
Dorian Finney-Smith’s Role in Charlotte
After spending time with the Los Angeles Lakers and the Houston Rockets, Dorian Finney-Smith was traded to the Charlotte Hornets. He is currently playing under a multi-year contract that he originally signed during his time in Houston.
As a veteran leader for the Hornets, he continues to provide the steady defense and reliable perimeter shooting that have made him a staple in the league for over a decade.
Dennis Smith Jr.’s Path to the G League
Dennis Smith Jr. has followed a more unconventional path in recent years. Following a brief professional stint in Europe with Real Madrid, he returned to the United States to continue his career.
He is currently playing for the Sioux Falls Skyforce, which is the NBA G League affiliate of the Miami Heat.
His presence there is a reflection of his “DaSmithWay” grit, as he continues to work toward securing a permanent spot back on an NBA roster through relentless performance and dedication.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Smiths
Is Dennis Smith Jr. related to Dorian Finney-Smith?
No, they are not biologically related. They are close friends who consider each other brothers due to their shared history.
Where did the “Smith Brothers” play together?
They were teammates on the Dallas Mavericks from 2017 to 2019 and were later reunited on the Brooklyn Nets during the 2023–24 season.
What is the origin of the “DaSmithWay” phrase?
It was coined by the duo to describe their relentless, hard-nosed approach to basketball and life, emphasizing high-level defense and grit.
Where are they playing currently in 2026?
Dorian Finney-Smith is playing for the Charlotte Hornets, while Dennis Smith Jr. is with the Sioux Falls Skyforce in the G League.
Did they grow up in the same state?
No. Dennis Smith Jr. is from North Carolina, and Dorian Finney-Smith is from Virginia.
Conclusion: A Brotherhood Built to Last
The relationship between Dennis Smith Jr. and Dorian Finney-Smith serves as a testament to the power of genuine connection in a professional setting.
Though they do not share a biological lineage, their shared history, identical names, and common professional values have created a bond that is widely recognized as one of the most authentic in the sport.
While their careers in 2026 have taken them to different stages—one in the NBA and one in the G League—the “DaSmithWay” philosophy continues to guide them.
Their story reminds us that family can be found through shared struggle, mutual goals, and a relentless commitment to excellence.
