Marcus Smart’s highly anticipated return to TD Garden as a member of the Washington Wizards took an unexpected turn when a heated exchange with a fan led to the fan’s ejection.
The incident occurred during the fourth quarter of the Boston Celtics’ dominant 124-90 victory over the Wizards, overshadowing what was otherwise a nostalgic homecoming for the former Celtics star.
Smart, who spent nine seasons with the Celtics before being traded, was on the Wizards’ bench when the altercation unfolded. Witnesses reported that the fan directed comments at Smart and his teammates, prompting the veteran guard to respond. The exchange escalated, with Smart leaning over the bench and appearing ready to confront the fan before teammates and security intervened. The fan was subsequently escorted out of the arena.
A Boston Celtics fan was ejected for saying something to Marcus Smart
(Via @Chris_232323)pic.twitter.com/NWvqxjkigN
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) April 7, 2025
After the game, Smart addressed the situation, stating,
“We all know I don’t do line crossing, and that was it. Unfortunate, you never want to see that, especially for a guy who’s coming back and who’s given the city everything he has. But it is what it is. We move on.”
Despite the altercation, Smart received a warm reception from the Boston crowd, with chants of “We want Marcus!” echoing through the arena. Fans donned shirts and signs celebrating his contributions to the Celtics, where he was known for his defensive tenacity and leadership. Smart reflected on the emotional return, saying,
“The love is always there. From both sides—myself and the fans, the city. It’s definitely emotional coming back, but I love every last bit of it.”
The Wizards, who have struggled throughout the season, were no match for the Celtics on this night. Boston’s balanced attack saw seven players score in double figures, led by Payton Pritchard’s 20 points. Meanwhile, the Wizards’ top scorer, Alex Sarr, managed 16 points in a losing effort. Smart, who did not play due to a coach’s decision, has averaged 9.3 points and 2.5 assists per game since joining the Wizards in a midseason trade.
