FRIENDS & FAMILY: KALEENA SMITH

Kaleena Smith has never been afraid to go first. From developing her game against boys to becoming the first high school girls’ basketball player to sign with adidas, the Inland Empire-raised guard continues to create a path entirely her own. In conversation with Flight Club, Smith reflects on the work behind her rise, the players who have shaped her game and the confidence it takes to create for her teammates while still knowing when to get hers.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I get up and work out in the morning, then I go to school. My last period of the day is weights class, so I lift before heading to practice. After practice, I work out again. During the summer, I do two workouts a day, one in the morning and another around midday. Then I do speed and agility work before team practice. That is really what my routine looks like during the summer and throughout the school year.

What is it like growing up in the Inland Empire?

I would say it is calm. It is not very active. Everybody is chill, and the neighborhood I live in is great.

Who did you model your game after growing up?

For sure, Maya Moore. Now, I would say I take a little bit from Hannah Hidalgo. I feel like our games are similar. The way she stays under control and gets to her spots is very efficient.

Has playmaking always come naturally to you?

For sure. It is something I have always naturally had, especially when I was playing with the boys because they were good players. I learned how to get them involved while also knowing when to get mine. I feel like it has continued to get better as I have gotten older.

Which NBA players do you study for passing and scoring?

Tyrese Haliburton. He passes the ball really well. And Kyrie Irving.

Who is the best basketball player in your family?

Me.

Can you break down your fit today?

For the shirt, I have on an adidas Three Stripes shirt. Then I have some leggings, adidas socks and the Gazelles. It is a calm little fit.

How would you describe your personal style?

I am very simple, but I also like colorful pieces. Green and blue, for sure.

What are your favorite foods?

Salmon and rice. My mom makes it, so it is good. I would also say tacos. I cook the tacos, though.

What is the most important part of your recovery?

Sleep. Because I have to wake up in the morning and work out, sleeping is really my recovery. I also do recovery work at school, but sleep is the most important thing for sure.

How did you feel when you signed with adidas?

I was happy, but I also felt blessed that God put me in a position to be with such a great brand. It is very family-oriented, and I felt wanted.

What does it mean to be the first high school girls’ basketball player to sign with adidas?

Being the first was a big thing for me. I feel like I have always been the first to do something throughout my basketball career. This is really a continuation of that, being the first to sign with them as a high school player.

What has it meant to have Candace Parker as a mentor?

When I was younger, I looked up to her because she was one of the best players to ever play the game. Being able to have somebody who has been there before mentor me is great. I remember when I met her, I kind of froze up a little bit. I had gone to an LA Sparks game and taken a picture with her. My mom sent me that picture a few days after I signed with the brand, and it was a full-circle moment.

Build the perfect basketball player using five players.

I would take Kyrie Irving’s ball handling, Kevin Durant’s mid-range game, Steph Curry’s shooting, Breanna Stewart’s moves and LeBron James’ athletic ability.

Who wins one-on-one, you or anyone else?

Me, for sure.

Who is your basketball GOAT?

For me, Maya Moore. I grew up watching her.

Which emojis represent your game?

The yoga emoji and the bucket.

Who do you listen to before a game?

For sure, you have to put on some Lil Baby.