Former Gonzaga Star Malachi Smith Earns Two-Year Deal With Brooklyn Nets

Smith's perseverance through the G League grind pays off with an NBA contract.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

After going undrafted in 2023, former Gonzaga guard Malachi Smith has secured a two-year deal with the Brooklyn Nets. Smith earned the contract after impressing on two 10-day deals with the team, averaging 7.3 points, 2.1 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.0 steals per game. Smith's journey included stops with four different G League teams over the past three years before finally getting his shot in the NBA.

Why it matters

Smith's story highlights the perseverance and hard work required to make it to the NBA as an undrafted player. His ability to stick with the grind of the G League and eventually earn an NBA contract is a testament to the talent development program at Gonzaga under coach Mark Few.

The details

After going undrafted in 2023, Smith played for the G League's Rip City Remix, Wisconsin Herd, Memphis Hustle, and Long Island Nets over the past three years. He impressed the Brooklyn Nets enough on two 10-day contracts to earn a two-year deal, where he will earn $65,838 for the remainder of this season.

  • Smith was named the West Coast Conference Sixth Man of the Year in 2023 before entering the 2023 NBA Draft.
  • Smith signed two 10-day contracts with the Brooklyn Nets earlier this season.
  • Smith's new two-year deal with the Nets will keep him with the team for the rest of the 2025-26 season and potentially beyond.

The players

Malachi Smith

A former Gonzaga Bulldogs guard who went undrafted in 2023 but has persevered through the G League to earn a two-year contract with the Brooklyn Nets.

Mark Few

The head coach of the Gonzaga Bulldogs, known for developing NBA-caliber talent through the program.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This further proves not only how much professional talent that Few has been able to bring through the program, but players that are willing to work their way to this uber-selective pool of talent.”

— Arden Cravalho, Gonzaga University graduate

What’s next

Smith will look to make the most of his two-year deal with the Nets and solidify his place in the NBA rotation.

The takeaway

Malachi Smith's journey from undrafted to an NBA contract with the Brooklyn Nets is an inspiring story of perseverance and the value of player development programs like the one at Gonzaga. His willingness to grind through the G League has paid off with a chance to showcase his skills at the highest level.