Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics celebrates with his son, Jayson “Deuce” Christopher Tatum Jr., after defeating the Milwaukee Bucks 109-81 in Game Seven of the 2022 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals at TD Garden on May 15, 2022 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)
3 overall in the 2017 NBA Draft. But lurking behind the rising Boston Celtics star was a 19-year-old readying for fatherhood at the same time he was embarking on professional basketball.
Jayson “Deuce” Tatum Jr. was born 12 games into Tatum’s rookie season. Jayson Tatum had a lot of expectations coming into the NBA after being taken No.
Celtics players and staff repeatedly say of the 23-year-old, His energy is so positive, describing him as a joyous, uplifting presence around the team. The Boston Celtics’ 2024 NBA Finals victory was one of the defining moments of Tatum’s career.
Tatum told “He was always there for me”; before the draft, he kept Deuce’s impending arrival under wraps, worried teams would question how focused or mature he was. Deuce ran out on the court and told his father, You’re the best player in the world, as they celebrated together. Tatum has said that Deuce’s innocent, unwavering belief in him has been a powerful mental anchor.
Tatum’s life changed with Deuce’s arrival. What had begun as an obligation that would change my life soon became a primary source of drive and emotional stability. Deuce was a constant companion on Tatum’s journey, popping up at Celtics games, team celebrations and big moments in his career. Tatum was a teenager when he learned he was going to be a father, as he was transitioning from Duke to the NBA. It was pressure and uncertainty about how his future would play out at this time. The concern was a reflection of the intense scrutiny top prospects entering the league face. Deuce has been a constant presence in locker rooms, pre-game routines and team activities on non-game nights. Having his son around served as a reminder that he was more than just a basketball player, keeping him grounded through one of the toughest stretches of his career.