"Jabari Smith Jr. is really just an oversized Matty Ice", "Super fu**ing stoked the Rockets drafted Jabari Smith Jr." - Fans with hilarious reactions as Houston Rockets draft the Auburn star at No. 3

Jabari Smith Jr. was stellar in his career as an Auburn Tigers player.
Jabari Smith Jr. was stellar in his career as an Auburn Tigers player.

Jabari Smith Jr., who was projected to be the No. 1 draft pick, was selected third by the Houston Rockets. The 19-year-old represented the Auburn Tigers in college basketball and made a name for himself there. At 6-foot-10, Jabari Smith Jr. is one of the best shooters in this class.

Odds predicted that the Orlando Magic would select him first. However, closing into the draft, Duke's Paolo Banchero became the favorite to be Orlando's first No. 1 pick since 2004. Smith Jr., who plays as a forward, will bring a lot of explosiveness to the Rockets.

Along with his shooting, he is projected to be a good defender. With Christian Wood gone, the Rockets could use Smith Jr.'s size to build their future around him and Jalen Green.

Many had their eyes set on Banchero as the Rockets' pick. However, fans and the Rockets front office will be more than happy to have gotten a big like Jabari.

Twitter went berserk as many felt that Jabari Smith Jr. deserved to be the first pick. But Rockets fans were happy for the 19-year-old as they felt that he would fit well with their team. Below are some of the best reactions to the Rockets picking the Auburn star.

How good will Jabari Smith Jr. be with the Houston Rockets?

Miami vs. Auburn
Miami vs. Auburn

Smith Jr. made history as the highest selection for a prospect from the Auburn Tigers when he went third to the Rockets. The 19-year-old is the son of former NBA player Jabari Smith and knows a thing or two about being in the league.

His shooting ability is what makes him a valuable piece for the Houston Rockets. Playing alongside talented guards like Jalen Green and Kevin Porter Jr., Smith Jr. should get plenty of open looks.

His size also gives him the chance to be a great defensive presence. With Christian Wood's departure, Jabari Smith Jr. could fill the void in their frontcourt. Although he's only 6-foot-10, he will likely be able to replace Wood's scoring as well.

Smith Jr. makes a lot more sense for the franchise, as they already had two guards. If they had drafted Paolo Banchero, they would have found themselves overloaded with ball handlers.

The Rockets now have a talented young core in Green, Porter Jr. and Smith Jr. However, these are young stars and will take some time before they make a significant impact. The Rockets' front office will have to show faith in them, and only then will they be able to help the franchise reach greater heights.

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