Point Guard Russ Smith and his long-time partner, Cecy Linzey, share a relationship defined by partnership and strength, offering strong support through life’s challenges.
While there’s no public confirmation that Russ and Cecy are married, their bond, developed over more than a decade, expresses the importance of their devotion to each other.
Russ Smith, a professional basketball player currently with Pallacanestro Nardò in Italy’s Serie A2, and Cecy Linzey, a dynamic entrepreneur and philanthropist, have been together since November 11, 2012.
Their relationship began in Louisville, Kentucky, where both were tied to the University of Louisville, Russ as a star on the basketball court and Cecy as a student.
According to Cecy’s Facebook, that date marks the start of a journey that’s taken them from college sweethearts to business partners and pillars of their community.
Their love glowed brightly in a heartfelt Valentine’s Day post by Russ in 2024, where he called Cecy “the woman behind the operation.”
He thanked her for turning their house into a home, pushing him to strive for greatness, and taking on key roles in their shared ventures.
He wrote:
“First & foremost, thank you love for allowing me to accompany you on this journey,
Via Instagram
Thank you for pushing me & us to be better & strive for greatness. Bless you for taking control of certain aspects in the company I myself alone or with someone else would not be able to manage. Thank you for turning our house into a home. This journey of life with you is always better with you in it & 1 phone call away.
You deserve everything we have coming our way & more.
Im not perfect but you give me something to aim for 💫”
The post, paired with a photo of the couple, captured a love that’s both tender and fierce, a partnership built on mutual respect and shared dreams.
Cecy Linzey Youth Was Filled With Family And Community, But It Wasn’t Without Heartbreak
Born Cecilia Delane Linzey to parents Jerry “J.R.” and Laura “Dee” Patty Linzey, Cecy grew up in West Lafayette, Indiana, alongside her brothers, Joel Robert and John Zachary “Zach” Linzey.
In April 2022, Cecy lost her brother Zach, who had battled mental illness for years.
The loss deeply affected her, yet it also filled her with determination to give back and support others.
Cecy’s academic path took her to William Henry Harrison High School before she pursued higher education.
She attended the University of Louisville and later earned a Bachelor of Science in Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services from Purdue University in 2015.
Her education helped her build a career that combines creativity, leadership, and making a difference in society.
After graduating, Cecy worked as a Personal Assistant to the CEO at Caroline Schmidt Fine Art LLC for two years, honing her organizational and interpersonal skills.
She then served as an Executive Assistant to the Chief Product Officer at LiveRamp for a year.
But Cecy’s entrepreneurial spirit soon took center stage.
In 2019, she co-founded Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Co. with Russ, an experience that shows their shared passion for craftsmanship and community.
In 2021, she became the Chief Creative Officer of Butter, further showcasing her ability to innovate and lead.
Beyond her professional achievements, Cecy is deeply committed to philanthropy.
Since 2017, she’s been a Children’s Mentor at the Russ Smith Foundation, promoting literacy and education by reading to kids and advocating for their futures.
She’s also a Founding Member of Raider Closet and a volunteer at Dare to Care Food Bank.
At the Coalition for the Homeless, Cecy has been fundraising since 2018, even creating featured artwork for the 2018 Bourbon Mixer, with all proceeds supporting the cause.
Her dedication earned her a Certificate of Achievement from HSN American Dreams, a testament to her impact.
Together, Russ And Cecy Are A Power Couple
Their bourbon company, Mr. & Mrs. Bourbon Co., is more than a business; it’s a reflection of their shared values.
Cecy’s creative vision and Russ’s drive have made it a success, with Cecy managing aspects of the company that Russ credits for its growth.
Their teamwork grows beyond the boardroom, as they guide the challenges of Russ’s basketball career and public life.
Russ, known for his electrifying play at Louisville and in professional leagues, has always had Cecy by his side.
From his NCAA championship run in 2013 to his current role in Italy, Cecy has been his rock.
Their Louisville home is a sanctuary, a place where Cecy’s warmth and Russ’s ambition create a balance that keeps them grounded.
On June 8, 2025, Russ Faced A Setback When He Was Arrested In Louisville For DUI And Reckless Driving
According to reports, he made an ill-advised U-turn across multiple lanes and a pedestrian crosswalk.
Russ Smith was arrested by the same guy who drove Scottie Scheffler to jail. https://t.co/aQT33PoAJl pic.twitter.com/oWwaFB6FhL
— KSR (@KSRonX) June 8, 2025
Police noted signs of alcohol consumption, and Russ admitted to having “two bourbon pours neat.”
Although his blood alcohol content was 0.073 below Kentucky’s legal limit evidence of impairment led to a DUI charge.
He was also cited for reckless driving and an expired license plate.
His arraignment, scheduled for Wednesday, could result in fines or further legal consequences, and the incident may impact his professional reputation and basketball career.
While Cecy hasn’t spoken publicly about the arrest, those close to the couple know she’s there for Russ, just as she always has been.
Her quiet strength and continuous support have carried them through tough times before, from the loss of her brother to the pressures of Russ’s career.
This moment is no different. As Russ faces the consequences of his actions, Cecy’s presence is a reminder that they’re in this together.
The question of whether Russ Smith and Cecy Linzey are married may linger, but it’s clear their dedication runs deep.
They’ve built a life together, blending love, business, and a shared passion for making a difference.
Cecy’s journey from a small-town Indiana girl to a Louisville entrepreneur and philanthropist is inspiring in its own right.
Paired with Russ’s charisma and determination, their story is one of resilience and partnership.
As they face the future, with Russ’s arraignment looming and new opportunities on the horizon, one thing is certain: Russ and Cecy are stronger together.
Whether it’s crafting bourbon, mentoring kids, or guiding life’s challenges, they’re a team.
