
09/25/2025
Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Opens Up on Being Discredited During ESPN Appearance
Boston, MA – Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum bared his frustrations on ESPN’s “First Take” on September 24, 2025, addressing critics who’ve downplayed his role in the team’s 2024 NBA championship run. The 27-year-old All-NBA forward, currently rehabbing a ruptured Achilles tendon from last May’s playoffs, didn’t hold back. “It’s tough when people act like I wasn’t a big part of why we won,” Tatum said, referencing narratives crediting teammates Jaylen Brown and Jrue Holiday over him despite his 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game last season. “I averaged 30 [points] in the Finals, and folks still said I didn’t show up,” he added, visibly irked. Tatum, who led Boston to a 4-1 Finals win over Dallas, pointed to his clutch performances, like a 31-point, 11-assist Game 5. Now four months into recovery, he’s resumed light workouts and eyes a late-season return. “I’m not here to prove doubters wrong—I’m here to win again,” he declared, signaling focus amid Boston’s revamped roster, including new additions like Lonnie Walker IV. As the 2025-26 season looms, Tatum’s candor underscores his resolve to silence skeptics with another title.