Wonderful article on Jeremiah Smith's background in The Athletic. A must read for Buckeye followers. I have not seen this kind of information on Smith anywhere else. I subscribe for $20/yr. Best sports bargain on the internet.

Summary, courtesy of PCola:

Begins when JJ was cut from the team at age 7. His dad (Chris) talked with the coach and because he knew Chris was going to let JJ be on the team.  Chris said no, he didn't want him on the team that way.

From that point on, Chris said he'd let JJ be a kid during the week, but on the weekends they'd 'work'! The article spoke to how JJ's work ethic began at that time and how he outworked pretty much everyone he trained with throughout his developmental years.  

Some great dad and son moments, especially driving home from games and listening to old music that JJ's 'old soul' began to emerge. Other dad lessons of humility and faith were germinated during times like that and led to the Jeremiah we see today.  An older soul, with a great work ethic, a special humbleness and rare skills/athleticism!