Marcus Smart under fire after ‘ugliest fans’ remark, days after standout defensive win
marcus smart is facing fresh backlash after a recent interview clip spread online, colliding with renewed attention on his latest on-court impact for the Los Angeles Lakers. The controversy centers on a comment singling out Memphis as having the league’s “ugliest” fans, despite his previous ties to the city. The clip circulated on March 4, 2026, with the interview timestamps showing updates at 11: 10 PM ET.
What marcus smart said, and why it set off an immediate reaction
In the interview on NBAT2, marcus smart was asked to name the city with the least attractive fanbase in the NBA. He answered: “Memphis, ” adding, “And I feel bad for ’em because Memphis is for the people. But this ain’t it. ”
The response triggered immediate blowback from Grizzlies fans, who were already upset with marcus smart following what was described as an injury-plagued tenure and later public criticism of the team’s culture. The clip then went viral on social media, with fans and local commentators accusing the veteran guard of taking “unnecessary strays” at a city that once welcomed him.
How marcus smart’s Memphis exit still hangs over the situation
The remark adds another layer to what has been described as a fractured relationship between marcus smart and Memphis following his exit in February 2025. After being traded to Washington and later landing with the Lakers, marcus smart has spoken publicly about a “dysfunctional” environment he says he witnessed during his time with the Grizzlies.
In a separate interview late last year, marcus smart described feeling misunderstood during his rehab period while with Memphis, saying the front office allegedly believed he “didn’t want to be there. ” In that same stretch of comments, he said: “I’m here every day working my a** off, cheering. I’m the only one on the bench coaching, but you know how it is. ”
Lakers focus: marcus smart’s latest defensive impact in a blowout win
While the criticism around his Memphis comments continues, marcus smart’s recent play has also drawn attention—especially his defensive output. On Sunday, March 1, marcus smart recorded nine points on 3-of-5 shooting (3-of-5 from three), with three rebounds, three assists, and five steals in 25 minutes during a 128–104 Lakers win over the Sacramento Kings.
The five steals marked his best defensive showing since he produced seven steals against the Hornets on Nov. 10. Over his last seven games, marcus smart has scored in double figures once, averaging 7. 0 points, 2. 6 assists, 2. 1 rebounds, 1. 6 steals, and 1. 3 three-pointers in 26. 4 minutes across that stretch.
Quick context on marcus smart’s current role in Los Angeles
marcus smart signed a two-year, $11 million deal in July 2025 to join the Lakers’ backcourt alongside LeBron James and Luka Doncic. Even with uneven scoring production, he has continued to be described as a defensive anchor in the rotation.
What’s next as marcus smart faces backlash while trying to keep momentum on the floor
As of March 4, 2026 (ET), the interview clip remains the flashpoint, and marcus smart is still taking heat from former fans as the comment ricochets across social platforms. The next development to watch is whether marcus smart addresses the remark publicly, or whether the story continues to follow him as the Lakers move forward with him in a defense-first role after his five-steal performance.
