Jayson Tatum, 6x NBA All-Star, opens up on self-doubt after injury, questioning his return, Joe Mazzulla, Celtics legacy, fatherhood, private life, disappointing 2024 Olympics w/ Steve Kerr, and why Kobe’s impact remains sacred.

“I’m going to be the best basketball player I can ever be and I’m also going to be the best father that I can ever be.” Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum sits down with Ryan, Channing and Fred for a raw, wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the headlines and boxscore. Tatum opens up about battling through injury, the moment he nearly walked away from the game, and the mental toll that comes with carrying expectations at the highest level. Recently returning to the court for rehab and light work, the 6x time NBA All Star and World Champion opens up on how the last year has been the toughest in his life, admitting self-doubt, questioning his will to heal and contemplating his return this season. Winning a title with Celtics etched his name in Boston royalty, although the high expectations still move him to chase the legends who've come before him while his focus remains on getting back to a championship. Jayson was upfront about working through past growing pains with Jaylen Brown, the pressures of being a face of the NBA and the three words Joe Mazzulla whispered to him during the biggest moments of their Championship run. A self-proclaimed mama's boy, he shares a deep understanding of sacrifice, hard work and how growing up with little motivated him being raised by a single mom but candidly he opens up on why he values the relationship with his father differently but still a bond he appreciates. With the anniversary of Kobe Bryant's passing, Jayson Tatum reveals how he was inspired by the icon and modeled his life based on certain experiences and explains why he is completely appalled with anyone questioning Kobe's contributions to the game. He reflects on representing Team USA in 2024 on the Olympic stage, what that experience taught him, his true in-the-moment feelings with Steve Kerr and how it reshaped his perspective as a leader but also as a man. From embracing the weight of Boston’s historic legacy to navigating fatherhood while still chasing greatness, Tatum shares how his humble beginnings continue to ground him. Honest, reflective, and powerful—this is Jayson Tatum like you’ve never heard him before. Pivot Family, please like, comment and hit the subscribe button, we value hearing from you and appreciate your support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices