From the Court to the Mic: How Xavier Smith Found His Voice Through Comedy
Seattle has a lot of talent, but every once in a while, a story stands out because of how intentional the journey has been. On this week’s episode of Almost The Weekend, Cuddy sat down with Xavier Smith, a Seattle native whose path from basketball to comedy proves that discipline travels — even when the destination changes.
For many people, Xavier was known first as a hooper. Born and raised in Seattle and a graduate of O’Dea High School, basketball shaped his early life and work ethic. That structure didn’t disappear when the game did. Instead, it quietly followed him into a new creative lane.
Comedy wasn’t something Xavier chased loudly at first. He started by writing — using downtime between basketball seasons to explore stories, ideas, and observations that had been living in his head for years. Eventually, curiosity turned into action. He signed up for an open mic at Tacoma Comedy Club, unsure if his name would even be called. When it was, three minutes on stage changed everything.
The response was real. Encouraging. Enough to keep going.
While still playing professionally, Xavier continued testing the waters whenever he could. Over time, he realized comedy wasn’t just a side interest — it was a space where his voice felt natural. His humor, rooted in real life, observation, and honesty, began resonating with audiences who saw themselves in his stories.
That same mindset led to the creation of They’re Just Jokes, which later evolved into They’re Just Jokes IRL — a live, sketch-based comedy experience blending stand-up, characters, music, and interviews. What started in backyards and small spaces has grown into a full production with a completed first season now available online.
For Xavier, building the platform wasn’t just about visibility — it was about community. He intentionally created space for other comedians, collaborated with local creatives, and leaned into a DIY approach that mirrors how many great rooms in comedy history were born.
Beyond the stage, Xavier is also stepping into long-form storytelling. He’s currently preparing to release his debut novel, Good People, Right Person, a project that explores morality, relationships, and self-discovery — written entirely in his own voice.
Xavier’s story isn’t about abandoning one dream for another. It’s about recognizing when growth calls for a pivot — and answering it with the same commitment that got you there in the first place.
As his comedy, writing, and creative vision continue to evolve, one thing is clear: Xavier Smith is building something with intention — and Seattle is watching it take shape.
