Hawks' Smith becomes youngest to reach 1,000 blocks

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- Josh Smith of the Atlanta Hawks has become the youngest player to block 1,000 shots in the NBA.

Smith recorded his 1,000th block with 8:29 left in the first quarter Tuesday night when he swatted away a shot by Oklahoma City's Nenad Krstic.

Smith reached 1,000 blocks at the age of 24 years and 59 days, more than a year younger than the previous record holder. Benoit Benjamin held the mark previously, reaching the milestone at 25 years and 128 days old while he was with the Los Angeles Clippers.

Smith, who ranks second in the NBA in blocks per game this season, has made it to 1,000 faster than any other player reached 900 blocks.