LOUISVILLE, KY | June 9, 2025 — Former Louisville Cardinals basketball star Russ Smith has been arrested in Louisville on charges of driving under the influence, reckless driving, and expired registration, according to online court records.
Smith, 34, was taken into custody early Sunday morning after allegedly making an illegal U-turn across multiple lanes in the Original Highlands neighborhood, a historic area near downtown Louisville. He was stopped by police, who reported a strong smell of alcohol and noted that Smith admitted to drinking “two bourbon pours neat” prior to driving.
The officer administered a field sobriety test, which Smith reportedly failed. His blood-alcohol content was measured at 0.073, slightly below Kentucky’s legal limit of 0.08. However, state law allows DUI charges at 0.04 or higher if other supporting evidence is present, the Louisville Courier Journal reported.
Smith was booked and later released on bond. He is scheduled to appear in court for an arraignment hearing at 9 a.m. Wednesday.
From NCAA Champion to Overseas Pro
Smith, a native of Queens, New York, rose to national fame as a fearless 6-foot guard for Louisville under head coach Rick Pitino, leading the Cardinals to the 2013 NCAA Championship alongside teammate Peyton Siva. However, the title was later vacated due to NCAA violations involving strippers and escorts provided to recruits from 2010 to 2014.
Smith was named in the investigation but denied allegations that he had received improper benefits. He was never formally charged in the NCAA’s disciplinary process.
Drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round in 2014, Smith had brief stints in the NBA and G League before moving on to international basketball. He has since played professionally in China, Israel, and Italy, where he currently competes for Pallacanestro Nardò, a team in Italy’s second division.
The recent arrest has reignited interest in Smith’s turbulent post-college journey and serves as a stark reminder of how off-court challenges can continue to follow athletes years after their collegiate glory.
