BOSTON — During Sunday’s game at the TD Garden, former Celtics and current Wizards guard, Marcus Smart, cited an incident where a fan allegedly went too far in his heckling of Washington’s bench. This resulted in a commotion leading to the fan’s removal from the venue.
Smart, who had been an integral part of the Celtics, shared his perspective after Boston’s commanding 124-90 win over the Wizards. “That fan stepped over a boundary,” Smart emphasized. “Respect and sportsmanship are crucial, especially for someone who dedicated so much to this city.”
The game showcased a stark contrast between the Celtics, the reigning champions, and the struggling Wizards. With Boston leading by a significant margin, tensions flared near the conclusion of the game. Smart was seen gesturing towards a fan, with teammates and coaching staff intervening to prevent the situation from escalating.
Reflecting on the incident, Smart explained, “I aimed to bring attention to security to avoid further issues. The focus needed to shift back to the game.”
Smart’s career with the Celtics began in 2014, lasting nearly a decade before he was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies in 2023 as part of a deal that introduced Kristaps Porzingis to Boston.
Though he didn’t play in the team’s previous match when visiting with the Grizzlies, he had returned to Boston with Memphis for a game in December. This was Smart’s first visit back to the city since joining the Wizards earlier this year. During the match, fans expressed their admiration by chanting, “We want Marcus!”
Reminiscing about his reception, Smart remarked, “Returning here brings back memories. The love from the fans is evident. This connection, both personal and professional, means the world to me. Spending nine years here, I’ve grown alongside this city.”
Post-game, Smart spent ample time catching up with his previous teammates, reflecting on their shared history. “Staying connected with them is vital. We’ve faced numerous challenges together, beyond just the game. They supported me during personal hardships, reinforcing the strong bond we share.”