Will Smith talks about having ‘gratitude in times of great challenge’ as LA Lakers visit

Lakers nation, stand up.

Scandal-scarred actor Will Smith spent his Wednesday touring the Los Angeles Lakers practice facility where he shared words of wisdom with the underperforming team.

The Oscar-winning actor, who was hit with a 10-year ban from attending the Oscars after he slapped host Chris Rock onstage, is desperately trying to revive his battered career since the ordeal.

The 54-year-old took part in the Lakers NBA team’s Genius Talks series, which sees all manner of celebrities impart their wisdom to the team and offer words of encouragement.

« A big thank you to Will Smith, who joined the team to discuss strength through solidarity and gratitude in times of great challenge, » the team wrote on Instagram. « All the themes from his next masterpiece, Emancipation. »

Smith didn’t come away empty-handed either.

The ‘Fresh Prince’ star received a Lakers No. 14 jersey before posing for snaps with some of the team’s leading figures including LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Russell Westbrook.

Smith was all smiles alongside team owner Jeanie Buss and general manager Rob Pelinka.

According to the team, he got candid during his speech and talked about « strength through unity and practicing gratitude in times of great challenge ».

His message was inspired by his most recent on-screen adventure, « Emancipation, » as the Lakers navigate a losing season.

Smith’s visit also saw him practice his hoop skills at the team’s training grounds.

« Gave the @lakers a preview of #Emancipation & had a GREAT conversation about the movie for their Genius series.. big thanks to everyone who came out!! Next stop.. my @sixers, » wrote the actor on Instagram.

It seems little inspiration was provided as the LeBron James-led team found themselves with an 0-4 record shortly after the visit.

The Denver Nuggets kept the Los Angeles Lakers winless with a 110-99 win Wednesday night.