Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Surprises Kids During Recovery from Injury

BOSTON — Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics is sidelined with an Achilles tendon injury, yet he continues to engage with his community. In an exclusive interview with SB Nation, he discussed how he copes with being away from the court and his dedication to philanthropy.

During timeout breaks this season, Tatum has been seen chatting with players from other teams and the officials he once argued with, receiving support as he rehabilitates. “It’s tough,” Tatum stated after returning from a three-game road trip with the Celtics. “I love to play, I love to compete.” Despite the setback, he remains connected with fans, especially young ones, as he waves or smiles from the sidelines.

On Tuesday, Tatum surprised kids at the Wang YMCA in Chinatown, where he participated in the unveiling of a renovated basketball court. The event was notable for being part of the NBA’s social impact program, and featured former Celtics player Leon Powe. The presence of Tatum transformed the occasion into a memorable one for the children.

Sokthea Phay, the Wang YMCA’s executive director, expressed his astonishment at having Tatum attend. “It was like early Christmas coming,” Phay said. The children were overjoyed, calling out to Tatum during his speech and expressing excitement about his “aura.”

Tatum reminisced about his own childhood moments at the YMCA in St. Louis, where he developed a passion for basketball. “My first memory of playing basketball was at the YMCA back in St. Louis,” he recalled, noting how important those experiences shaped his love for the game.

Since its establishment, the Jayson Tatum Foundation has worked to give back to the St. Louis community. His foundation has renovated local community center gyms, run various charitable drives, and hosted workshops. “As long as the impact is felt, and I’m impacting and changing lives back home, that’s most important,” Tatum stated.

In light of his injury, the NBA has committed funds to the St. Louis YMCA on behalf of Tatum’s foundation, enhancing programming at the center. Tatum has no set return date to the game but aims to return later this season. “Every day, I go to rehab and work out,” he said. “It’s just something that motivates me.”

Though Tatum cannot play, he remains with his team during practices and meetings, finding solace in their continued camaraderie. Celtics management emphasizes that his full recovery is the priority, as experts suggest that returning to play is possible once he is healthy both physically and mentally.