Doubt and uncertainty fueled criticism around Jayson Tatum for a large part of his seven-year career, with numerous postseasons ending in "What if?" Many questioned whether the 6-foot-8 forward from Duke had what it took to lead a team to an NBA championship. That was until the conclusion of the 2023-2024 NBA season.
Tatum shares his story of last season, winning the NBA championship and the effort put into preparing for this season in Episode 5 of "Pass The Rock: Season 3." The NBA Entertainment original provides fans with all-access coverage into the lives of the game’s youngest stars in their on and off-court endeavors.
“These last seven years been a roller coaster.. I had to listen to all the [stuff] people said about me, and tonight it was worth it,” a relieved Tatum shared in his post-NBA championship press conference. “Maybe you had to go through all those things,” Tatum reflected after several seasons of losing in the conference finals and falling short in the 2022 NBA Finals. “Made you appreciate it that much more because you know what it’s like to get there and lose.”
Tatum’s father, Justin Tatum, was the first to put a basketball in his son’s hands. Justin Tatum felt he didn’t have the chance to develop in his own basketball career. So he instilled the desire in his son at a young age and helped build him into a versatile player who could handle the ball, shoot, and run the pick-and-roll. “That kinda set the blueprint,” Tatum said. “I always had the mindset that there was some kid somewhere working out while I was asleep. And I never wanted that to be a reason why my dreams didn’t work.”
Tatum’s work ethic aligns perfectly with his aspirations on the basketball court, especially when playing for a historic franchise like the Boston Celtics. “Understanding of what we are trying to chase is greatness,” Tatum shared after a grueling training camp entering this season. “Winning is most important, and people remember people who win.”
It’s clear that Tatum’s goals resemble those of the Celtics: winning championships. The Celtics are seeking back-to-back NBA championships, with the Orlando Magic being their first test.
Fast forward to the present, and Tatum is making headlines again. On Friday, April 25, 2025, he returned to action in Game 3 of the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs against the Orlando Magic. Despite battling through a wrist injury that had sidelined him for the previous game, Tatum showcased his scoring prowess, totaling 36 points. He achieved this with a shooting line of 10-22 from the field, 4-10 from three-point range, and a perfect 12-12 from the free-throw line. Additionally, he contributed nine rebounds, four assists, one block, and one steal across 39 minutes on the court.
However, despite Tatum's heroics, the Celtics fell short in a nail-biting 95-93 loss to the Magic, affording Orlando a vital victory in the series. The defeat was a tough pill to swallow for Tatum and his teammates, especially after such a strong individual performance.
“I felt good out there. I just wanted to do everything I could to help my team win,” Tatum said after the game. His determination and leadership were evident, but the Celtics will need to regroup quickly as they look to bounce back in the series.
As the playoffs progress, Tatum's resilience will be put to the test. With the Celtics aiming to repeat as champions, every game becomes crucial. The next matchup against the Magic promises to be another intense battle as both teams vie for supremacy in the Eastern Conference.
The Celtics have a storied history, and Tatum, as one of their key players, carries the weight of expectations on his shoulders. Fans are hopeful that he can lead them through the playoffs and into another championship run. Tatum's journey from being doubted to becoming a champion is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
As the series continues, the Celtics must harness their collective strength and Tatum's individual brilliance to overcome the Magic and advance further in the playoffs. With the stakes higher than ever, the determination to win remains at the forefront of Tatum's mind.
In conclusion, Jayson Tatum's performance and leadership will be pivotal for the Celtics as they navigate the challenges of the playoffs. His ability to rise to the occasion, even when faced with adversity, sets him apart as a player to watch. The Celtics are not just chasing victories; they are chasing greatness, and Tatum is leading the charge.
