Haywood Highsmith Bio
Haywood Lee Highsmith Jr. (born December 9, 1996) is an American professional basketball player for the Brooklyn Nets of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Highsmith was born in Baltimore, Maryland. He played college basketball for the Cardinals of Wheeling Jesuit University and was recognized as the NCAA Division II Player of the Year during his senior year in 2018. After going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft, Highsmith began his professional basketball career with the Delaware Blue Coats of the NBA G League, later making his NBA debut with the Philadelphia 76ers. He has since played for the Miami Heat and currently competes with the Brooklyn Nets.
Early Life and Background
Haywood Highsmith was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. He graduated from Archbishop Curley High School in 2014, where he developed his skills in basketball. Despite his talent, Highsmith drew little interest from NCAA Division I colleges, which led him to pursue his collegiate career at Wheeling Jesuit University. During his time at Wheeling, he became a prominent player, showcasing his abilities and dedication to the sport. Highsmith’s early exposure to basketball was influenced by his father, Haywood Highsmith Sr., who also played college basketball.
Path to Basketball
After joining Wheeling Jesuit University, Haywood Highsmith quickly made a name for himself. He became a starter towards the end of his freshman season and continued to improve throughout his college career. In his sophomore year, he averaged 14.5 points and 9.4 rebounds per game, earning a spot on the first team All-Mountain East Conference (MEC). His junior season saw him average 15.3 points and 10.8 rebounds, leading to a second-team All-MEC selection. By his senior year, Highsmith had elevated his game, averaging 22 points and 12.6 rebounds per game, which earned him several accolades including MEC Player of the Year and first-team Division II All-America honors.
Haywood Highsmith Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
Haywood Highsmith began his professional career with the Delaware Blue Coats after going undrafted in the 2018 NBA draft. He signed with the team through a local tryout and made an immediate impact, averaging 13.7 points per game in 21 appearances. His performance caught the attention of the Philadelphia 76ers, who signed him to a two-way contract in January 2019. Highsmith made his NBA debut on the same day, scoring three points in a win over the Washington Wizards.
Breakthrough (2021–2022)
Highsmith’s breakthrough came during his time with the Miami Heat. He initially signed a 10-day contract with the team in December 2021, which was extended due to his impressive performances. During the 2022 NBA playoffs, he played a significant role in the Heat’s journey to the NBA Finals, scoring a playoff career-high of 15 points in a crucial game against the Boston Celtics. His contributions helped the Heat achieve a historic upset against the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks in the first round.
Notable Works and Milestones
Haywood Highsmith’s career highlights include being named the MEC Player of the Year and receiving multiple All-MEC selections. His notable performances in the NBA playoffs have established him as a key player for the Miami Heat and now the Brooklyn Nets.
Haywood Highsmith Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Haywood Highsmith has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his college years, where he was recognized as a top player in NCAA Division II basketball.
Haywood Highsmith Awards Won
Highsmith’s notable achievements include being named the MEC Player of the Year in 2018 and earning first-team Division II All-American honors from the National Association of Basketball Coaches. He has also been recognized as the MVP of the MEC tournament in 2018.
Haywood Highsmith Family
Haywood Highsmith Jr. comes from a family with a strong basketball background. His father, Haywood Highsmith Sr., played college basketball for the Fairmont State Fighting Falcons and was inducted into the Fairmont State Athletics Hall of Fame in 2012.
Personal Life
Details about Haywood Highsmith’s personal life are limited, as he tends to keep his private life out of the public eye. However, it is known that he has a close relationship with his family, particularly with his father, who has been a significant influence on his basketball career.
