Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown exude confidence in their abilities, a trait that has propelled the Boston Celtics to an impressive 48-12 record, currently the best in the NBA. Tatum emphasizes their shared commitment to constant improvement as the factor that distinguishes them from other star duos in the league.
“In approaching this season, our mindset has been consistent: I’m striving to get better, and so is he,” Tatum expressed in an interview with The Players’ Tribune. “We’re not stagnant. We’re among the most determined players in the league.”
Since being drafted back-to-back to the same team in 2017, these two All-Stars have been integral teammates, witnessing each other’s growth and evolution on the court. Their partnership has translated into consistent playoff appearances throughout their time in the league.
.@jaytatum0 on playing with @FCHWPO:“It’s been great. Two guys that got drafted back to back to the same team. Every day, every game, I know where I’m trying to get to and he knows where he’s trying to get to, and we try to figure it out together. In a way, we’re pushing each… pic.twitter.com/G91XxfPnyu
— The Players' Tribune (@PlayersTribune) March 5, 2024
While a championship title has eluded them thus far, Tatum and Brown led the Celtics to the brink of victory in the 2022 NBA Finals, pushing the series to Game 6 before succumbing to the Golden State Warriors.
The emergence of players like Derrick White and Kristaps Porzingis in supporting roles in the 2023-24 season has bolstered hopes for another deep playoff run.
In their seventh year together, Brown and Tatum have elevated their efficiency to new heights, boasting shooting percentages of 50.2% and 47.8% from the field, respectively—personal bests for both players.
“Our competitive dynamic is constant—we push each other, engage in one-on-one matchups after practice,” Tatum remarked. “I believe the next phase for us is enhancing our synergy on the court.”
Their dominance persists, as evidenced by the Celtics’ commanding 140-88 victory over the Warriors, marking their third 50-point win of the season.
