Charles Smith: From Georgetown Star To NBA Player And Beyond

17 May, 2025

Ever wondered what happened to that promising Georgetown star who briefly graced the NBA hardwood? Charles Edward Smith IV, born November 29, 1967, in Washington, D.C., is more than just a name from basketball's past; he's a story of talent, resilience, and the enduring allure of the game.

While some might recall him as "Charlie Smith" during his time with the Boston Celtics, perhaps drawing comparisons (fair or not) to another Charles Smith known for a certain missed layup, it's his collegiate career at Georgetown University that truly cemented his legacy. For many fans, especially those who followed the Hoyas in the late 1980s, Charles Smith was a force to be reckoned with, a key component of a team that consistently challenged for national honors. His transition to the NBA, playing for both the Celtics and the Minnesota Timberwolves, marked another chapter, albeit a shorter one, in a career defined by dedication and a genuine love for the sport. Even now, years after his professional playing days, the echoes of his performances on the court resonate with those who witnessed his talent firsthand.

Full Name	Charles Edward Smith IV
Born	November 29, 1967 (age 56)
Birth Place	Washington, D.C., USA
High School	All Saints High School (Washington, D.C.)
College	Georgetown University (1985-1989)
Height	(Information Not Readily Available)
Weight	(Information Not Readily Available)
Position	Guard
NBA Draft	Not Drafted
Professional Career	Boston Celtics (NBA), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
Teams	Boston Celtics (NBA), Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA)
Achievements	2nd team 1989, Big East Player of the Year
Olympic Games	Played for the 1988 United States Mens Olympic basketball team
Reference Link	Sports Reference - Charles Smith Olympic Stats

The sentiment, "it feels good to be back playing ball again," expressed by Smith at 27, encapsulates his enduring passion for the game. It speaks to a deeper connection that transcends the professional arena, harking back to his days as a Georgetown star in the late '80s, where he shone brightly in the Big East Conference. Those years on the Hilltop were formative, shaping not only his basketball skills but also his character and approach to life.

However, Smith's story isn't without its darker chapters. The news report of him being shot twice in the chest inside his Bowie, MD, home is a stark reminder of the challenges and vulnerabilities that even former athletes can face. The incident prompted a search by Prince George's County police, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the concern for his well-being.

Looking back at his time at Georgetown, Charles Smith was undeniably a key figure. His senior year was marked by exceptional performance, solidifying his status as a leader and a scorer. As the Hoyas' top scorer, he consistently delivered, amassing a combined 117 points at the Capital Centre in Georgetown's first five home games of the year. These performances weren't just statistical achievements; they were displays of skill and determination that resonated with the Georgetown faithful and contributed to the team's success.

His recruitment to Georgetown is itself a tale worthy of recounting, a part of the university's rich basketball lore. For the initial 60 games of his collegiate career, Smith played a pivotal role, fitting seamlessly into the Hoyas' system. One particular game stands out, a victory over Syracuse where Georgetown's defense stifled the Orangemen, holding them to a mere 25 percent shooting after halftime and setting a school record with nine blocked shots. This dominant performance underscored the team's defensive prowess and Smith's contribution to their overall success.

Interestingly, the history between Georgetown and Syracuse dates back to February 1930, showcasing a long-standing rivalry between the two programs. While Georgetown boasted offensive firepower in Charles Smith and the potential of freshman Alonzo Mourning, opponents often focused their defensive efforts on neutralizing Smith and exploiting Mourning's inexperience. This strategic challenge necessitated the emergence of another scoring option for the Hoyas, a role that Jackson filled admirably with his off-ball movement and outside shooting.

Beyond Smith's individual achievements, the context of his career within the broader landscape of college basketball is crucial. During his era, the Big East Conference was a hotbed of talent, producing numerous NBA players and consistently challenging for national championships. Smith's recognition as the first Big East Player of the Year in seven years from a school other than Georgetown or St. John's is a testament to his exceptional abilities and his impact on the conference.

Smith's basketball journey extended beyond college and the NBA. He represented the United States on the 1988 Olympic team, a squad that holds the distinction of being the last American team composed solely of amateur players before the inclusion of NBA professionals. This experience provided him with invaluable exposure to international competition and the opportunity to represent his country on the world stage.

Following his time in the NBA, Smith returned to his roots in Washington, D.C., where he continued to play basketball, adding to his local legend in a 2000 Kenner League game. This involvement in local basketball circles underscores his enduring commitment to the sport and his desire to give back to the community that supported him throughout his career.

It's worth noting that there's another Charles Smith who played in the NBA, Charles Daniel Smith (born July 16, 1965). He enjoyed a longer NBA career, playing from 1988 to 1998. This distinction is important to avoid confusion when discussing their respective careers and contributions to the sport.

Delving deeper into Smith's high school years, his basketball team was a dominant force in the 1980s. Their success was attributed, in part, to an unusual training regimen: the coach required all players to participate in cross country running. This emphasis on conditioning gave them a competitive edge, ensuring they were better conditioned than their opponents. The discipline instilled during those formative years undoubtedly contributed to Smith's later success in college and the NBA.

While statistical data regarding Smith's specific NBA performance may be limited in the provided context, the narrative surrounding his career points to a player who was respected for his skills, dedication, and contributions to his teams. His journey, from a standout player at All Saints High School in Washington, D.C., to a Georgetown star, an Olympian, and a brief stint in the NBA, is a testament to his passion for the game and his unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Names like Eric Smith (1981), Patrick Ewing (1982), Bill Martin (1985), David Wingate (1984, 1986), Perry McDonald (1987), Charles Smith (1988), and Alonzo Mourning (1989) evoke the rich history of Georgetown basketball, a program known for producing talented players and competing at the highest level. Charles Smith's place among these luminaries underscores his significant contributions to the Hoyas' legacy.

The mention of a game that two coaches at the NBA Finals would recall with differing degrees of fondness, forever known as the "Charles Smith" game in New York, adds another layer of intrigue to the Charles Smith narrative. While the specifics of this game are not detailed here, it suggests a pivotal moment in NBA history where a Charles Smith played a significant role, for better or worse. This anecdote highlights the enduring impact that individual players can have on the course of a game and the collective memory of fans.

The various geographical locations mentioned in connection with Charles Smith's career, from Washington, D.C., to Boston, Minnesota, and even Rapid City (where he played in the Continental Basketball Association), underscore the transient nature of a professional basketball player's life. These stops along the way represent different stages in his career, each contributing to his overall development and experience.

Ultimately, Charles Edward Smith IV's story is one of dedication, perseverance, and the enduring power of basketball. While his NBA career may have been relatively brief, his impact on Georgetown University and the broader basketball community is undeniable. He remains a figure of interest for fans who remember his playing days and a testament to the enduring legacy of college basketball stars who left their mark on the game.

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