Dennis Smith Jr. is 20.
He's from Fayetteville, N.C., which could have its city limit sign next to the "southern hospitality" entry in Webster's unabridged.
On a sports team with a 40-year-old legend and lots of other veterans, his age and background don't lend themselves to Smith being a take-charge, kick-butt leader.
And yet, here he is.
"When he talks, people listen," coach Rick Carlisle said. "He's not a guy that's going to give you a lot of unnecessary constant chatter. But he understands when to step forward and be strong as a leader verbally.