Crowder's journey to the NBA wasn't like everyone else's. During high school, he did not receive a single Division I basketball scholarship offer. During junior college, his coach almost kicked him off the team. During Crowder's first few months at Marquette, he argued with coach Buzz Williams daily and contemplated an early exit from the school.

With a starting job, a sizable contract and growing respect around the NBA, it has all paid off handsomely for Crowder. His versatility has changed so much for the Celtics and his toughness has helped turn them into an emerging force in the Eastern Conference. He appreciates how far he has come already but wants more, and has learned enough on his bumpy journey to understand he can promise only one thing in the future: work.

"It's all I know."