Jayson Tatum, the star player of the Boston Celtics, recently reflected on his experiences over the past year, which included significant achievements like winning the NBA championship and securing a gold medal at the Olympics.
However, despite these successes, Tatum felt some disappointments, particularly not being awarded the NBA Finals MVP and being a healthy scratch for two games during Team USA’s Olympic journey. At the Celtics’ media day, Tatum humorously suggested that head coach Joe Mazzulla might see his disappointments as a way to motivate him for the upcoming season.
While the Celtics celebrated their record-setting 18th NBA title in June, Tatum’s performance in the postseason drew attention, especially as his teammate Jaylen Brown outperformed him in MVP considerations during the Eastern Conference finals and NBA Finals.
Tatum’s absence from two games against Serbia during the Olympics also attracted scrutiny. He acknowledged that not playing in the Olympics was challenging and remarked that Mazzulla seemed surprisingly pleased about his setbacks, which he found to be a peculiar but understandable reaction given Mazzulla’s personality.
Despite the unique circumstances of the past summer, Tatum emphasized that he did not require additional motivation heading into the new season. He described the Olympic experience as unlike any he had encountered before, asserting his belief that everything happens for a reason.
Tatum reflected on the positives of his summer, such as winning a gold medal, forming connections with other elite players, and enjoying time with his family during the Olympics. He found value in these experiences, despite any disappointments.
Tatum has much to be proud of from the last few months. He achieved his long-sought goal of winning an NBA title, earned a spot on the All-NBA First Team for the third consecutive year, and gained recognition by being featured on the cover of the latest NBA 2K video game.
Additionally, he attended the premiere of “Starting 5,” a Netflix documentary highlighting his journey along with other NBA stars. With these accomplishments, Tatum is eager to build on his success as the new season approaches.
As the Celtics aim for their 19th championship title, Tatum expressed that his perspective entering this season is significantly different now that he has experienced the joy of winning a championship. He acknowledged that the team’s focus is not merely on winning one title but achieving greatness over time.
Tatum feels a sense of belonging among Celtics legends, realizing that he is now part of a conversation about greatness within the franchise’s storied history. He is motivated to maximize his potential and contribute to the Celtics’ legacy, with a clear understanding of what it takes to remain at the top.
