Comcast SportsNet New England will debut a 30-minute TV special called "The Education of Marcus Smart," before tonight's game between the Boston Celtics and the Chicago Bulls. The special will air at 7:30 PM EST, after Celtics Pregame Live at 7 PM, but before the game at 8 PM.
Here is a preview from Comcast's press release:
The Education of Marcus Smart, narrated by CSN's Celtics play-by-play voice Mike Gorman, outlines Marcus's journey from his childhood in Texas through current day as a rookie Point Guard for the Boston Celtics. The show illustrates how Smart has overcome adversity both on and off the court from a very early age. Growing up just outside of Dallas, Texas, basketball was always part of Marcus's life. His oldest brother Todd - who was diagnosed with cancer before Marcus was even born -- was a local high school basketball legend and Marcus's hero. After an 18 year battle with cancer, Todd passed away, leaving his 9-year old brother Marcus inspired to follow in his footsteps and commit all of his energy to the game of basketball.
CelticsBlog got a chance to watch the special prior to its premiere, and it is excellent. The program is directed by Torey Champagne, who once again shines, shedding light on the rookie point guard's story, uncovering some artifacts never heard before.
Smart, as well as his friends and family, are interviewed, and discuss how his trials and tribulations growing up have formed him into the young man that he has become. After suffering a serious left ankle sprain in Friday's game, it's almost poetic that the special airs tonight, as it will only cement the fact that Smart will return better than ever.
If you're unable to watch "The Education of Marcus Smart" before tonight's game, be sure to set your DVR for it. Marcus Smart's inspirational story is one of strength and overcoming adversity, and this something we can all learn from.