NaLyssa Smith, forward for the Indiana Fever and teammate to Caitlin Clark, has recently been released from the Zhejiang Golden Bulls, a professional basketball team in China. This unexpected move has led to widespread speculation regarding her future in the sport, with many fans and analysts suggesting that she may be gearing up for a significant change in her career. Smith, 24, is rumored to be potentially traded by the Indiana Fever, but her release from the Chinese team has stirred further curiosity about what comes next for her.
The Zhejiang Golden Bulls issued a statement confirming the end of their relationship with Smith, citing amicable negotiations between both parties. The club indicated that they would continue their search for foreign talent to fill the spot left by Smith’s departure. This announcement has set the basketball world buzzing, with many believing that Smith might be preparing for a new chapter, potentially joining Unrivaled, a new 3v3 basketball league set to debut in Miami later this month. Fans have taken to social media to express their excitement at the possibility, with some suggesting that Smith’s move to Miami is a done deal.
However, the situation surrounding Smith’s release seems to be more complicated than initially thought. While some fans speculated that her departure from Zhejiang was due to a desire to join Unrivaled, Smith’s brother, Rodney, clarified on social media that her release was due to an injury rather than a straightforward career move. He confirmed that Smith has been struggling with an ankle issue, which has been a recurring concern for her in the past. While the injury doesn’t appear to be severe, it may have influenced the decision to release her from the Chinese team.
Currently, it seems that there may not be room for Smith in the Unrivaled league, as all roster spots are reportedly filled. However, a change in circumstances could be on the horizon, as one of Unrivaled’s top players, Cameron Brink, is sidelined for the season due to an ACL injury. Brink’s absence could open up an opportunity for Smith to step in, potentially marking a shift in her career trajectory. Unrivaled’s league is still evolving, and Smith’s injury recovery could play a significant role in her next move.
Despite the uncertainty around her immediate future, Smith’s talent and potential continue to make her a highly sought-after player. As she recovers and evaluates her options, both fans and analysts will be keeping a close eye on where she lands next. Whether she returns to the court with the Indiana Fever, joins Unrivaled, or pursues another opportunity, Smith’s career is poised for exciting developments in the near future.l
