Building a high-energy basketball program in Arlington

Guard

John Joseph III

John Joseph III ("Fresh") is a relentless two-way competitor who brings elite defense, high basketball IQ, and a team-first mentality to Southern Smoke. A lockdown defender and vocal leader, he sets the tone on both ends — whether shutting down the opponent's best scorer or creating in clutch moments. Off the court, he mentors young athletes and coaches youth basketball, believing success is built on consistency, discipline, and leading by example.

Guard

Marquis "Quis" Smith

Marquis "Quis" Smith is a fearless 5'10", 160 lbs guard with limitless range and a relentless motor. A disruptive on-ball defender and a poised floor general who controls the pace on every possession. A standout at Southwestern Adventist University with professional experience in the UBA, he brings composure, deep shooting, and a winning mentality to Southern Smoke.

Guard

Kyle Terrell

Kyle Terrell is a 6'2", 195-pound combo guard from Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for his high basketball IQ, three-level scoring ability, and disciplined two-way play, Kyle combines elite court vision with a refined offensive skill set that makes him a consistent threat across the floor. He competed collegiately at Texas College in Tyler, Texas, and gained professional experience with the Texas Tsunami and Mambas Brotherhood in the MBL. With more than 30 years immersed in the game, Kyle brings veteran leadership, poise, and a pass-first mentality to the Southern Smoke backcourt.

Forward

Deonta Terrell

Deonta Terrell is a 6'6" forward with elite versatility, a polished handle, and exceptional basketball IQ. Capable of playing and defending every position, he brings a fearless, aggressive mindset — his approach is simple: you have to guard him. He played collegiately at Texas A&M Commerce and has international professional experience in Germany and the Basketball Africa League (BAL). A proven winner, he earned MVP honors at Triton College and in the BAL, but his greatest assets are his heart and passion for the game. Deonta will be one of the toughest matchups on the Southern Smoke ABA roster.

Forward

Terry Johnson Jr.

Terry Johnson Jr. is a 6'8", 200-pound forward with exceptional versatility and tremendous upside. A former NAIA Division I All-American at Huston-Tillotson University, Terry led the nation in scoring — a testament to his elite offensive ability. He stretches the floor with a reliable perimeter shot while also possessing the size and skill to operate comfortably with his back to the basket. A complete two-way player, Terry pairs his dynamic scoring with standout defensive instincts, making him a matchup challenge on both ends of the floor. Southern Smoke adds a premier talent with a proven track record and a ceiling that continues to rise.

Guard

Jonathan Milligan

Jonathan Milligan is a 6'2" guard out of the University of Pittsburgh whose career is defined by elite versatility and a deep résumé of high-level basketball. A Reebok All-American and a 2018 NBA second-round mock draftee, Jonathan has competed at the highest levels — earning Euro Basketball Summer League MVP honors, All-TBL First Team recognition, and years of professional experience across multiple leagues and countries. On the floor, he is a true two-way weapon: he can shift from facilitator to scoring guard in an instant, breaking down defenses with a consistent three-point shot, a polished mid-range pull-up, and the vision to find open teammates when the defense collapses. What sets him apart is his ability to control the game without dominating the ball — he reads defenders, anticipates rotations, and makes the right play every time. Defensively, Jonathan is a tone-setter who takes pride in locking down his assignment and communicating through every possession. His basketball IQ is off the charts, and his competitive fire is matched only by his commitment to making everyone around him better. A seasoned veteran with a win-first mentality, Jonathan Milligan brings the leadership, poise, and all-around game that defines Southern Smoke basketball.