Rik Smits is a Dutch former professional basketball player who spent his NBA career with the Indiana Pacers. Standing 7 ft 4 in, Smits established himself as a skilled scoring center in the 1990s and helped lead Pacers to deep playoff runs while paving the way for future European big men in the league.
Career Overview
Rik Smits’ NBA journey ran from 1988 to 2000 with the Indiana Pacers. The Dutch big man emerged as one of the league’s most respected European players of his era, combining length, touch, and high basketball IQ to anchor the Pacers’ frontcourt during the 1990s.
Physical Profile and Draft
Standing 7 ft 4 in, Rik Smits was selected 2nd overall by the Indiana Pacers in the 1988 NBA Draft. His size and skill set allowed him to thrive in the post and mid-range, making him a matchup problem for many centers of his time.
Prime Years and Scoring
Rik Smits enjoyed a string of double-digit scoring seasons in the early to mid-1990s, showcasing a reliable mid-range jumper and touch around the rim. While the Pacers were known for their guard play with Reggie Miller, Smits provided a crucial inside scoring option and floor spacing for the offense.
Pacers Era and Role
With the Pacers, Smits formed a core alongside Reggie Miller and Mark Jackson in the late 80s and 90s. He started most seasons and served as the team’s primary interior scoring and shot-blocking presence, contributing to multiple playoff appearances and deep runs.
International Influence
Rik Smits’ presence helped popularize European players in the NBA, inspiring a generation of Dutch players and other Europeans to pursue pro careers in the United States. He remains a prominent figure in Dutch basketball history.
Injury and Retirement
Towards the late 1990s, injuries limited his playing time, and Rik Smits retired from professional basketball after the 1999-2000 season. His career is remembered for longevity and impact despite health challenges.
Legacy and Impact
Rik Smits left a lasting legacy as a trailblazer for European centers in the NBA and a skilled scorer who could stretch the floor. His career helped show teams that international talent could thrive in the league and influence future generations of players from Europe.
Career Milestones & Numbers
- NBA Career: 1988–2000 with the Indiana Pacers
- Height/Weight: 7 ft 4 in, listed around 250 pounds
- Draft: 1988 NBA Draft, 2nd overall pick
- Notable: Played in multiple playoff runs with the Pacers; one of the era’s most recognized European centers
- Stats: Career double-digit scoring seasons; known for efficient shooting and post skills; durability across 12 seasons
Comparisons to Peers
During the 1990s European centers like Rik Smits faced peers such as Arvydas Sabonis and other internal bigs. The discussion around Smits centers on how his size, skill, and game translated to the NBA while maintaining a European style of play.
Discussion Questions
- In your view, where does Rik Smits rank among European big men of the 1990s?
- How did Smits’ style translate to the modern NBA game with more spacing?
- Which Smits seasons define his legacy best?
- What was the missing piece for Smits’ Pacers to reach deeper playoff success?
- How has Rik Smits influenced Dutch basketball and future players?
CTA
Join the discussion: Share your memories of Rik Smits, compare him to peers, and weigh in on his legacy in NBA history.