Grizzlies' Marcus Smart Receives Standing Ovation From Celtics Fans in Return to Boston

Smart was inactive for Sunday’s game in Boston, but Celtics fans gave him a warm welcome in his return to TD Garden.

The Memphis Grizzlies paid a visit to TD Garden on Sunday evening for a road matchup against the Boston Celtics. Although Marcus Smart wasn’t active for the game due to an injury, he made the trip out to Boston with his team in what was his first visit back to the city following this offseason’s trade.

Smart was dealt to the Grizzlies in a three-team deal that saw Kristaps Porzingis go from the Washington Wizards to the Celtics.

Upon his return to The Garden, Smart received a warm welcome from fans in attendance, who gave him a standing ovation and showed him plenty of love. He walked onto the court and raised his arm in the air as the crowd broke into a loud “We love Marcus” chant. 

“We love Marcus” chants in Boston for Marcus Smart. 🙏🙏

pic.twitter.com/FKv2OSXYMw

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) February 4, 2024

Shortly after that, a tribute video played from the big screen at the arena, recognizing the ceaseless energy he brought to the team throughout his near decade-long tenure. 

Marcus Smart poured his blood, sweat and tears into the Celtics' franchise

Emotions were high during his tribute video during for his return pic.twitter.com/sIxtWGUYbS

— Celtics on NBC Sports Boston (@NBCSCeltics) February 4, 2024

Smart spent the first nine seasons of his NBA career in Boston, featuring in 581 games for the team, and fans showed their appreciation for his lengthy tenure with the franchise ahead of Sunday’s game. 

The 29-year-old’s first season in Memphis has been marred by injuries, limiting him to just 20 appearances through the team’s first 50 games. Smart hurt his finger in January and is due to be reevaluated in a few weeks. He also missed the Grizzlies’ previous clash against the Celtics earlier this season due to a separate injury. 

The Grizzlies as a whole have been ravaged by injury, and have just eight players available for Sunday’s tilt.