In the spotlight, Jayson Tatum is a superstar. At home, he’s simply “Dad.” We’ve seen his bond with Deuce grow into something more special for over six years. With his bright smile and endless energy, Deuce is always courtside, cheering his heart out for his dad. And why wouldn’t he? JT isn’t just an NBA sensation; he’s a role model in his son’s eyes. After seeing the duo’s adoration for each other, it’s safe to say the Boston Celtics’ superhero’s tumultuous relationship with his father has taught him to be the “best dad” for his little boy.

Back in 2020, stuck in the NBA “bubble,” Jayson Tatum kept storytime alive with Deuce, FaceTiming him nightly to read his favorite books. Fast-forward to now, and the duo has a new favorite—Baby-Dunks-a-Lot, a book Tatum co-wrote inspired by his son. Speaking with NBA.com, the 26-year-old shared his simpler approach to fatherhood. He doesn’t want to be the “scary” dad; he instead focuses on being intentional with Deuce, building a bond beyond just sports.

“Yeah, I think just being a normal dad. Being there for recitals and plays at school,” Jayson Tatum shared. “I make sure that — regardless if I had a game the night before, had to travel, or got in late — when it’s my days to have him, I’m getting up at 6:30 in the morning to take him to school. When we don’t have a game, I’m making sure I’m there to pick him up after school. It’s just about being present as much as I can, especially with how much we travel.”

Simply put, the Boston Celtics‘ star is trying to do everything for Deuce to keep things simple yet wholesome. Moreover, Jayson Tatum’s experiences of growing up under a strict basketball coach dad and reportedly being in an abusive environment likely shaped his perspective on fatherhood. As a result, he has learned how to avoid becoming like his dad. And maybe that’s why he also feels that the LeBron-Bronny tandem is the “coolest thing ever.”

Jayson Tatum isn’t sure if he and Deuce will have their LeBron-Bronny moment in the NBA

Bronny James’ debut in the NBA must be one of the greatest moments of pride for LeBron James. Moreover, they’ve paved the way for more father-son duos to play alongside each other. Looking ahead, we could see Jayson Tatum Jr., aka Deuce, walking on the court beside his dad. However, what are the odds of that happening?

“To just see pictures from LeBron’s first couple of years in the league and having Bronny with him all the time and on the court to now share these moments together. I think it’s a testament to their relationship, the longevity of LeBron’s career, and to Bronny,” Jayson Tatum expressed. “A father and son playing in the NBA is something special that I never thought I would see. As far as me and Deuce, I don’t know. A lot of things would have to go right for that to happen. It’s too early to tell.”

JT and JT Jr. still have much time to see if they can play professional basketball together. But now, they enjoy their time in love, laughter, and bonding.

Jayson Tatum‘s journey as a father is an example of his commitment to being present and intentional with Deuce. Despite a challenging upbringing, he strives to be the best dad, focusing on simple, meaningful moments. Tatum and Deuce simply cherish their bond, which is filled with pure love.