Reggio Emilia, Italy – The relationship between Pallacanestro Reggiana and veteran guard Jamar Smith has officially concluded. The Italian Serie A club announced on Wednesday, March 5, 2026, that they have reached a mutual agreement to terminate Smith’s contract, which was set to expire on June 30, 2026. This brings an complete to a significant chapter for both the player and the team, though Smith’s on-court contributions had diminished in recent months.
Smith’s last appearance on the court for Pallacanestro Reggiana came on December 17, 2025, in a home match against Oradea. While that game may represent the final competitive act of his career at the highest European levels, the 38-year-old will remain with the team through the end of the season. This arrangement is largely due to family considerations, as his children attend international school in Modena. Smith will continue to train with the team under the guidance of head coach Dimitris Priftis.
The decision to part ways was described as a collaborative one, with the club praising Smith’s professionalism throughout his time with Pallacanestro Reggiana. From a financial perspective, the move allows Unahotels Reggio Emilia to save on the salary of a player who had been signed under the previous General Manager, Claudio Coldebella, a decision now viewed as premature.
Smith arrived in Reggio Emilia in the summer of 2023, brought in by Coldebella and quickly became a key figure for the team. He was a leader and a driving force during his first two seasons, showcasing his shooting ability, court vision, and experience. However, the arrival of new point guard Stephen Brown Jr. This season led to Smith’s reduced role, as the team navigated roster limitations for foreign players.
With his 39th birthday approaching on April 7, Smith’s future appears to be shifting away from playing. While he still possesses the talent to compete in Serie A2, the prevailing sentiment is that he is already considering a career in coaching. Pallacanestro Reggiana has announced plans to hold a celebratory event to honor Smith’s contributions to the club.
Throughout his illustrious career, Smith has accumulated an impressive list of accomplishments. He won the EuroCup with Málaga in 2017, the French Championship with Limoges in 2015, and the FIBA Europe Cup with Bahçeşehir in 2022 – a victory that came against, ironically, Reggio Emilia. He similarly secured a Lega Balcanica title with Hapoel Gilboa in 2013. These accolades underscore the impact Smith has had on European basketball.
Despite the contract termination, Smith leaves behind a legacy as a winner in Reggio Emilia, though many fans undoubtedly wished for one final appearance on the court. His dedication to the team, even after being sidelined, speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the sport.
Pallacanestro Reggiana currently competes in the Serie A league, Italy’s top-tier basketball competition. The team plays its home games at the PalaBigi arena in Reggio Emilia, which has a seating capacity of 4,600. The club has a rich history, having reached the Serie A finals twice, in the 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 seasons, and holds the record for the most seasons played in Serie A without winning a championship.
The club, also known as UNAHOTELS Reggio Emilia due to sponsorship, is currently led by President Veronica Bartoli and General Manager Marco Sambugaro, with Dimitris Priftis serving as the head coach. The team is navigating a competitive Serie A landscape, striving to improve its standing and contend for a championship.
As Pallacanestro Reggiana moves forward, the focus will be on integrating Stephen Brown Jr. And continuing to develop its roster. The team will look to build on its existing foundation and craft a strong push for playoff contention in the coming seasons. The departure of a veteran like Smith undoubtedly creates a void, but it also presents an opportunity for younger players to step up and contribute.
The next scheduled match for Pallacanestro Reggiana is yet to be announced, but fans can stay updated on the team’s schedule and news through the official team website: www.pallacanestroreggiana.it. The club will also provide updates through its social media channels.
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