Who doesn’t want to be remembered as the greatest that ever lived? To make a mark in their respective field in such a manner that their legacy will be remembered for generations to come? In the NBA world, holding a belief like this motivated several big names like Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, LeBron James, and Stephen Curry to stand where they are today. To be described as legends for years to come. The goal of reaching that pinnacle is what is motivating Jayson Tatum today.

Tatum was interviewed after his team’s recent win against the Philadelphia 76ers. Given that the 76ers had lost their 5 previous consecutive matchups, it was no surprise when the Celtics secured the win by a 124-104 score. Fortunately, Jayson Tatum made the matchup more interesting by recording another triple-double score (15 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists). This compelled one reporter to ask the secret behind the player’s drive/motivation during games. Tatum candidly replied that he wishes to reach the same status currently held by players like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, etc. Furthermore, he wants to do it whilst wearing the same colors he does now.

“Wearing a Celtic uniform comes with a lot of pride, and right, you know, best Celtics ever is Larry Bird,” said Tatum. “And even if I never reach that…. maybe I do, maybe I don’t. You know, you aspire to chase that guy um you know it comes with a level of focus and motivation every single day to be the best you can. Wherever the chips fall just knowing that you gave it to your all, you know, you can be okay with that”.

Jayson Tatum’s remarks did not highlight just his desire. It also sent a message to those who aspire to reach the same level as the NBA legends. The first step is dreaming. After that, one needs to develop enough determination and focus to set the foundation for a career through which one can carve out their legacy.

If anyone is slowly climbing the same pedestal as Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, it is Jayson Tatum. As of date, he has 1 championship trophy, several All-NBA team honors, etc. He has been named to the All-Star team 6 times and even won the All-Star Game MVP title in 2023. He is making strides to help the Celtics attempt a two-peat. After all, he has already averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists in 53 games this season. Furthermore, as highlighted by the NBA, Jayson Tatum is on pace to average 25+ points per game for the 5th straight season. This would allow him to surpass Larry Bird’s record (1984-1988) for the most consecutive seasons averaging 25+ PPG in Celtics franchise history!

To get to this point, the power forward has paid his dues. He developed a sense of hard work right from his early days. Tatum would wake up at 5 a.m., make 250 shots before going to high school, etc. He worked on his fadeaway footwork, the verticality of his jump shot, the hip twist to improve his offense, etc. Skills coach Drew Hanlen once revealed “As a sophomore in high school we spent one full week working on Kobe Bryant’s jab step, including five days of not shooting a jump shot. For a sophomore to buy into that and not worry about it, he was going to be fine.”

As it turned out, Jayson Tatum went on to be more than fine. Now, the player is well on his way to becoming the next big name of the Boston Celtics franchise. However, that in itself is not something that many people are a fan of. It is a fact that hinders any hope Tatum might hold of motivating the next generation of aspiring players.

Jayson Tatum dealt with NSFW chants while making an appearance in a Philadelphia high school game

The official Instagram account of YEA Sports recently highlighted Jayson Tatum’s visit to a high school. According to reports, the NBA star was there to support his former teammate Brad Wanamaker. Wanamaker serves as an assistant coach at Roman Catholic High School. Roman Catholic was competing with Devon Prep in the semifinals of the Philadelphia Catholic League. The game was at the Palestra, the iconic Philly venue. Therefore, it was no surprise that the crowd was filled with Philadelphia residents, and fans of the local teams. Furthermore, it wasn’t an environment that would necessarily provide a ‘warm’ welcome to Jayson Tatum.

As expected, the moment the Celtics player walked to take his seat, the high school players started shouting “F–k the Celtics”. The fact that the Celtics were scheduled to face the 76ers only made things worse. Fortunately, in the end, Tatum had the last laugh after defeating Joel Embiid and co.

The fact that Jayson Tatum gave his motivating remarks even after receiving the jeers speaks volumes. After all, those jeers in themselves carry a passion that can fuel the Celtics star. Therefore, the 26-year-old still holds hope for the next generation, and for himself, to do better.