At this point in the season, some NBA stars might be spending more time on the bench, preparing their minds and their bodies for the long haul of the playoffs.
But not Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics, who wants to play as much as possible.
Tatum recently talked about why he doesn’t want to sit out of games.
It’s not just because he is a natural competitor, but also because he knows what his time on the court means to his fans.
“I’ve talked about the value that I’ve put into playing in road games. I’ve been very blessed and fortunate to come into arenas — I see a lot of Tatum jerseys. I understand it might be for their birthday, Christmas gift or whatever,” Tatum said, per Courtside Buzz.
Jayson Tatum on not sitting out NBA games:
“I’ve talked about the value that I’ve put into playing in road games. I’ve been very blessed and fortunate to come into arenas — I see a lot of Tatum jerseys. I understand it might be for their birthday, Christmas gift or whatever.”… pic.twitter.com/kXdRLqIbz4
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) March 17, 2025
Tatum isn’t comfortable sitting on the bench knowing that many people have come to the games to see him.
Indeed, Tatum has gained a lot of fans over the years.
Boston followers are well known for being very loyal and they have every reason to support Tatum this year.
He is averaging 27.1 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists per game on 45.4 percent from the field.
His team is one of the best in the league, currently the second seed in the East with a 49-19 record.
Tatum has endured his fair share of criticism over the years and there is a chorus of people who don’t feel he is the future face of the league and a true superstar.
But he is a gold medalist at the Olympics and now a champion and has millions of and who love everything he does.
At the end of the day, that is who Tatum is playing for and that is why he is trying so hard.
The Celtics have clinched a spot in the postseason so now would be a good time for Tatum to get some rest, but this statement makes it clear that he won’t be doing that.
NEXT: Fans React To Celtics Clinching Playoff Spot