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Former NBA Punchline Joe Smith Dominates in Turkey

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, March 10th 2026 at 4:56 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, TURKEY, GERMANY

Ankara, Turkey - March 10th, 2026 - Remember Joe Smith? For many NBA fans, the name conjures images of missed dunks, awkward fouls, and a consistent presence on Shaquille O'Neal's infamous "Shaqtin' a Fool" segment. The running gag was almost a career defining one. But today, that narrative is being rewritten, thousands of miles from North American shores. Smith, the former NBA center, isn't just playing professional basketball; he's dominating it. And he's doing it in Turkey's Basketball Super League (BSL) with Turk Telekom.

Smith's journey has been anything but conventional. Drafted 28th overall in the 2018 NBA draft, he spent several seasons as a role player, floating between teams and struggling to find consistent playing time. While possessing flashes of athleticism and potential, his career was consistently overshadowed by a string of comical on-court mishaps that became internet gold, particularly on "Shaqtin' a Fool." The show, a staple of NBA television, routinely featured Smith's struggles, often to the amusement of millions. For years, it seemed destined to be his legacy.

However, after being waived by the Washington Wizards in early 2024, Smith found himself facing an uncertain future. Many assumed his professional basketball career was nearing its end. Then came the unexpected offer from Turk Telekom in August of 2025. The move was met with skepticism. Could a player so readily identified with bloopers and bench-warming find success on a new continent? The answer, emphatically, is yes.

Through 17 games this season, Smith is averaging a remarkable 24.7 points, 13.5 rebounds, and 4.1 assists. These aren't just solid numbers; they are elite numbers, placing him among the league's leading performers. He's not merely a physical presence; Smith has demonstrably improved his skillset. Analysts covering the BSL have noted a significant improvement in his post-game, a refined jump shot, and a much more disciplined approach to defense.

"He's completely transformed his game," says Deniz Aksoy, a sports commentator for Turkish television. "We were all aware of the 'Shaqtin' a Fool' videos, but that player is gone. This Joe Smith is aggressive, confident, and a true leader on the court. He's a nightmare matchup for opposing teams."

Turk Telekom's success is inextricably linked to Smith's resurgence. Currently holding a 13-6 record, they are firmly positioned as a contender for the BSL championship. Smith isn't just scoring; he's facilitating, rebounding, and providing veteran leadership to a team brimming with young talent. His teammates clearly respect him, and his influence extends beyond the stat sheet.

The story is a powerful reminder that athletic careers aren't always linear. It's a testament to perseverance, dedication, and the ability to adapt. Smith's time in Turkey appears to have unlocked a level of confidence and focus that eluded him in the NBA. He's taken the criticism, the ridicule, and used it as fuel.

Of course, the "Shaqtin' a Fool" shadow still lingers. Turkish fans, initially unfamiliar with the NBA highlight reel, quickly became acquainted with Smith's past through viral videos. But instead of being a source of embarrassment, it's become a sort of endearing quirk. Fans now chant "Shaqtin'!" ironically during Smith's impressive performances, turning a former insult into a symbol of his unlikely triumph.

It's unclear what the future holds for Joe Smith. A return to the NBA seems unlikely, but not impossible, particularly if he continues to perform at this level. For now, he's focused on leading Turk Telekom to a championship and cementing his status as a legitimate basketball star - not just a blooper reel icon. The former punchline is now writing his own story, and it's a story that's captivating audiences around the world.