Dorian Finney-Smith Bio
Dorian Lawrence Finney-Smith is an American professional basketball player for the Houston Rockets of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He played college basketball for the Virginia Tech Hokies and Florida Gators. After spending his first seven seasons with the Dallas Mavericks, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets in February 2023, and then to the Los Angeles Lakers in late December 2024.
Early Life and Background
Dorian Finney-Smith was born on May 4, 1993, in Portsmouth, Virginia. He attended I. C. Norcom High School, where he excelled in basketball, averaging impressive statistics during his junior and senior years. Finney-Smith’s high school career was marked by significant achievements, including leading his team to back-to-back Group AAA state championships. He was recognized as a two-time VHSL Class AAA Player of the Year, showcasing his talent early on. After completing high school, he committed to Virginia Tech, where he began his collegiate basketball journey.
Path to Basketball
Finney-Smith played his freshman year at Virginia Tech in the 2011-2012 season, where he made a notable impact by averaging 6.3 points and 7.0 rebounds per game. He was named to the ACC All-Freshman Team, highlighting his potential. In June 2012, he transferred to the University of Florida, where he faced a year-long wait due to NCAA transfer regulations. During his time at Florida, he earned accolades such as SEC Sixth Man of the Year in 2014 and was recognized as a two-time second-team All-SEC player in 2015 and 2016.
Dorian Finney-Smith Career
Early Career (2016–2023)
Finney-Smith entered the NBA as an undrafted player in 2016. He signed with the Dallas Mavericks on July 8, 2016, and quickly made a name for himself. His first notable performance came shortly after the season began when he played 31 minutes against the Milwaukee Bucks, contributing significantly to the team’s victory. Over the years with the Mavericks, he became a reliable player, known for his defensive skills and ability to contribute on offense. He signed a four-year, $52 million veteran extension with the Mavericks in February 2022, solidifying his role within the team.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Finney-Smith’s career took a significant turn in February 2023 when he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets as part of a deal involving Kyrie Irving. This marked a new chapter in his professional journey, allowing him to showcase his skills on a different platform. In December 2024, he was traded again, this time to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he continued to demonstrate his versatility and talent on the court. By July 2025, he signed a four-year, $53 million contract with the Houston Rockets, further establishing his presence in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Dorian Finney-Smith has achieved several milestones, including being named to the SEC All-Freshman Team and winning the SEC Sixth Man of the Year award. His consistent performance has made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for, and he is recognized for his contributions during playoff appearances with the Mavericks.
Dorian Finney-Smith Award Nominations
Dorian Finney-Smith has received several nominations and accolades throughout his basketball career, particularly during his college years, where he was recognized for his outstanding performance on the court.
Dorian Finney-Smith Awards Won
Finney-Smith has achieved notable awards, including being named to the second-team All-SEC twice and winning the SEC Sixth Man of the Year award in 2014. These accolades reflect his skill and dedication to the sport.
Dorian Finney-Smith Family
Dorian Finney-Smith was born to Elbert Smith and Desiree Finney-Henderson. He has a complex family background, with his mother having five other children, including three collegiate athletes. His father, Elbert, faced legal challenges, being sentenced to 44 years in prison for a crime in 1996 but was released in 2024.
Personal Life
Finney-Smith has three children, including a daughter born in 2009 and two sons. He has faced personal challenges, including the tragic loss of his older brother, Ra-Shawn Finney, who was fatally shot in 2008. Finney-Smith honors his brother’s memory with a tattoo across his chest. Despite these challenges, he continues to focus on his career and family.
