By DePaul Healthy Trailblazer Journal reporters | Playing basketball has connected RJ Smith with other people and made him a better person. It’s also propelled him to a spot on the La Salle University team. RJ, whose full name is Ryan Smith, Jr., spoke about his personal journey through basketball in a recent interview with Healthy Trailblazer Journal reporters.

RJ is a student and point guard at Philadelphia’s Roman Catholic High School who has committed to play for La Salle beginning in Fall 2026. He said he first picked up a ball when he was 4 years old, because his dad and many of his uncles played basketball. He started to take it seriously when he was 7 or 8 years old. Since then, he said he has traveled for basketball and made relationships he keeps today. “That orange ball has taken me everywhere,” RJ said.

Social connections are important for strong mental health, according to an article by the Harvard School of Public Health. One way to make those connections is by participating in group activities. “I made a lot of friends fast by talking to people and being on the basketball team,” said RJ.

RJ also discussed several other topics related to school and basketball. His answers have been peers, but sometimes you experience conflicts with
your parents or siblings. It’s helpful to think about how they might be feeling.”

Ms. Westfield wants people to know that everyone is going through something. Before you open your mouth, think about what they might be experiencing. “Lead with love and kindness. It’s not always easy to do, but that’s a start. I try to remember that, even with strangers.”

Illustration by Kiana, 8th grade, DePaul, 2025-26