Elite defensive guard and heart-and-soul leader whose toughness and tenacity made him one of the most beloved players in Celtics history.
Marcus Smart was born in Flower Mound, Texas on 6 March 1994. The archetypal heart-and-soul player, Smart was one of the NBA's elite defensive guards across his decade in the league. He was known for his willingness to take charges, make the defensive play no one else would, and inject energy and physicality into every game. Boston selected him sixth overall in 2014 and he spent nine seasons as a beloved Celtic, winning the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022 — just the second guard in 25 years to do so. He was traded to Memphis Grizzlies in 2023 and later joined the Houston Rockets. His offensive game was a weakness throughout his career, but his defensive impact, leadership and winning culture made him invaluable in Boston. He was part of Boston's championship run teams.
Elite perimeter defense and versatility
How They Played
Defensive specialist, physical guard, clutch performer
Lasting Impact
One of the premier defensive guards of his generation
NBA Defensive Player of the Year 2022
He became just the second guard in 25 years to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award in 2022, validating what Celtics fans had known for years: that he was the best defensive guard in the league.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- NBA Defensive Player of the Year 2022