CAMDEN, N.J. — The Philadelphia 76ers converted Javonte Smart from an Exhibit 10 deal to a two-way contract after the preseason. In a corresponding move, they waived Ricky Council, who held a two-way slot for the Sixers.
In the preseason, Smart showed his ability to handle the ball, knock down open looks from deep and get guys into position to succeed. He was impressive on the defensive end as well, so it made sense the Sixers decided to convert Smart’s deal to keep him around.
“I’m confident in myself,” said Smart. “I work hard. I’m always in the gym. I also showed that I can help run a team. Help be another point guard, another guy that can help run the team, and just be myself. Play hard, I can score the ball, I can help get other players involved, and continue to do that.”
When considering the nature of the two-way deals, Smart is likely to spend the majority of the 2023-24 season toiling in the G League with the Delaware Blue Coats, but he does have NBA experience under his belt. He was on two-way deals with the Milwaukee Bucks and the Miami Heat in the past.
That experience has helped him prepare for this next step.
“Just being ready when the opportunity presents itself,” Smart added. “Whenever I get my chance, be ready. I don’t wanna look back and say ‘When I got my chance, I wasn’t ready’ so I just wanna go in and just be ready and keep putting in work and every day, just keep working.”
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