Marcus Smart Signed Memphis Grizzlies White Jersey

Marcus Smart entered the NBA as the sixth overall pick by the Boston Celtics in 2014, immediately establishing himself as one of the league's most tenacious defenders and becoming the emotional leader of the franchise for nearly a decade. His journey with the Celtics saw him develop from a raw defensive specialist into a complete guard who could run an offense, hit crucial shots, and anchor championship-contending teams.

Smart's career reached its pinnacle when he became the first guard since Gary Payton in 1996 to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his status as an elite two-way player. His trade to Memphis in 2023 marked the end of an era in Boston, where he had embodied the franchise's blue-collar identity and championship mentality throughout his tenure.

NBA Champion (2022)

NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2022)

3× NBA All-Defensive First Team

All-time leader in charges drawn in Celtics history

Over 800 career three-pointers made

Memphis Grizzlies (2023-Present)
Boston Celtics (2014-2023)
Oklahoma State Cowboys (2012-2014)

Marcus Smart redefined what it means to be the heart and soul of a franchise, proving that winning basketball extends far beyond scoring statistics to encompass leadership, defensive intensity, and willingness to sacrifice personal glory for team success. His historic Defensive Player of the Year award as a guard highlighted the value of elite perimeter defense in the modern NBA and inspired a generation of players to embrace the defensive end.

Smart's impact on the Celtics' culture and his reputation for making winning plays—drawing charges, diving for loose balls, and delivering in clutch moments—established him as one of the most respected competitors of his generation. His legacy represents the timeless value of toughness, versatility, and basketball IQ in building championship-caliber teams.