Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart is now recovering from his ankle injury and is expected to play in Game 1 of the NBA Finals on Thursday. Unknown to many, however, his ankle issue was pretty severe.

Smart admitted as much while talking to reporters on Wednesday, admitting that he was surprised himself that he was still able to play and walk after the injury.

“The ankle is a pretty serious injury. I’m thankful to let alone play and still be walking. It hurt, but my mama always told me if you’re gonna play, you can’t make no excuses,” Smart shared, per Jared Weiss of The Athletic.

Now that is something you certainly wouldn't want to hear. Marcus Smart missed just one match since sustaining the injury in Game 3 of their Eastern Conference Finals against the Miami Heat, so it is certainly surprising to learn that the ailment was that bad.

Smart also just proved that there is no quit in him no matter what the situation is. He knows very well that the Celtics need him if they want to win, and he stepped up to the challenge despite the pain he was feeling.

Fortunately, the Defensive Player of the Year avoided reaggravating the injury. As Celtics head coach Ime Udoka also said, there is no concern on Smart's ankle despite him being listed as questionable for Game 1.

Hopefully, Smart gets back to 100 percent soon as they face the Golden State Warriors starting Thursday.