Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart’s dedication to defense is rooted in the challenges he faced during his troubled youth. The 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year now finds himself defending the league’s top guards while also utilizing his platform to support cancer patients and help underprivileged inner-city youth.
“As a defender, you’re always at a disadvantage,” Smart explained in a recent interview. “It was the same for me in the game of life. I’m the youngest of four boys and have always had to fight for what I want. I lost my brother and several family members and friends at a young age. These experiences shaped my mentality on and off the court.”
Smart has made a name for himself as an elite defender, initially with the Boston Celtics and now as a part of a star-studded Lakers roster alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Today marks the first Christmas game he will play as a Laker, where he faces off against the Houston Rockets. A vital part of his career includes multiple stints in the Eastern Conference finals and an NBA Finals appearance, during which he became a fan favorite due to his grit and charitable endeavors.
Through his YounGameChanger Foundation, Smart empowers inner-city youth by promoting education, sports, and mentoring, while also providing support to pediatric cancer patients. He founded the organization following his brother’s battle with leukemia, wanting to create a space for families grappling with similar challenges.
“The YounGameChanger Foundation is designed to help families affected by cancer and provide mentorship to inner-city youth,” Smart said. Reflecting on his brother’s struggle, Smart emphasized the importance of community support and awareness for those impacted by cancer. He has created initiatives like the “Smart Carts,” rolling carts equipped with tablets and Nintendo Switch consoles, designed to entertain young hospital patients during lengthy stays.
Over the years, Smart has actively supported various communities across the United States, driven by his own experiences. His work has included providing Smart Carts to numerous hospitals and collaborating with athletes like Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen to spread joy in children’s healthcare facilities.
As Smart transitioned from the Celtics to the Lakers, he relished the opportunity to play for another historic franchise and continue his journey toward an elusive championship. His recent contract with the Lakers reignited his ambition, and he expressed gratitude for the chance to contribute to a team with high aspirations.
LeBron James recognized the value Smart brings, remarking on their historical matchups in the Eastern Conference and the completeness Smart contributes to the Lakers. The unique transition from the Celtics to the Lakers is not lost on Smart, who acknowledges the significance of playing for two of the most storied franchises in NBA history.
From his challenging upbringing to becoming an impactful NBA star, Smart embodies resilience. He hopes his story encourages others to give back and lend a helping hand to those in need. “I hope the younger generation can understand that we’ve been blessed enough to do what we do and provide for our families,” he said. “All it takes is a little bit of time and understanding to make the world a better place.”