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Ex-Knick, N.J. star making basketball comeback with new name, religion

Related Topics: Ironi Nahariya

Chris Smith, the New Jersey native, former Louisville standout and one-time Knicks guard, was once best-known as J.R. Smith's younger brother.

Now Smith's story--and faith--have changed that.

Chris Smith is now Ariel Smith, a name change brought upon by a conversion to Orthodox Jewish faith. As detailed in a conversation with the New York Post, Smith leaned on a former Knicks star to guide him and he begins a new life and tries to resurrect a hoops career overseas.

Chris Smith, the former Knicks point guard and J.