A Summer of Change for Tatum and Brown
During the summer, Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown kept in touch via text messages. They occasionally ran into each other between the end of the playoffs and the beginning of training camp. While they were teammates and colleagues, their relationship never extended into close friendship territory. Offseasons tend to feel short, especially when deep playoff runs extend the season.
Last summer, the Boston Celtics lost a Game 7 in the conference finals to the Miami Heat. Tatum turned his ankle, and Brown couldn't single-handedly carry the team. This was the kind of loss that could splinter a team. Moreover, the team's salary cap was about to tighten with Brown's upcoming large contract.
Sensing the urgency, Brown reached out to Tatum with a suggestion to work out together. With the help of Assistant Coach Sam Cassell, they began training sessions, facilitated by trainer Drew Hanlen. Paul Pierce joined them in weightlifting sessions and workouts, pushing both players and helping them cement a stronger bond. This newfound camaraderie carried through into one of the most dominant seasons in NBA history.
Overcoming Adversity
Tatum and Brown were always recognized for their talent and skill. However, the game needed to slow down for them to reach their full potential. Plagued by ego issues, tough opponents, and injuries, they never lost faith. Through a series of organizational changes, the Celtics aimed to support their young stars better.
Brad Stevens, formerly the head coach, transitioned into the role of president of basketball operations. Ime Udoka was brought in as head coach but was later fired, leading to Joe Mazzulla's promotion from assistant to head coach. In addition, three veteran stars were recruited to mentor Tatum and Brown. The Celtics leaned on their young duo, elevating them into leadership roles.
The Decision to Keep Them Together
Brad Stevens played a crucial role in keeping Tatum and Brown together. He knew the value they brought to the team and resisted trading them for several big-name players over the years. Stevens often reassured Brown of the organization's long-term commitment, eventually signing him to the largest contract in NBA history. Brown used this commitment as motivation to improve, playing the best basketball of his career during these playoffs. He was named MVP of both the conference finals and NBA finals.
The Journey to Championship Glory
Tatum and Brown have always been aware of the media criticisms swirling around them. However, they chose to block out the noise and focus on their game. Tatum's 6-year-old son, Deuce, symbolizes his journey with the Celtics. After losing the 2022 Finals, Deuce helped his father stay grounded. Tatum focused on training and addressing the weaknesses in his game, leading to significant improvements in the following playoffs.
Tatum and Brown's partnership often highlights their personal relationship, a topic frequently discussed and debated. Yet, their successful season rendered these debates irrelevant. The Celtics enjoyed one of their most drama-free seasons, emphasizing a growth mentality, as frequently mentioned by Coach Mazzulla.
Quotes:
The following quotes shed light on their journey and mindset:
“We were always good and talented. The game needed to slow down.”
"Oh, they didn't win it. They can't play together. They should trade him."
"It's what it's all about. When we're all done in our time with the Celtics, as coaches, as players, all that's going to really matter is how we treated each other. Nothing else matters."
Reflecting on their relationship, Brown said, "You worry about how some people would handle that. Not Jaylen. He's a worker. He just wants to get better. He takes everything as motivation to improve."
Tatum, too, had his share of reflections, saying, "It took being on the other side of this and losing in the Finals and being at literally the lowest point in a basketball career that you could be, to next year, to the following year, thinking that was going to be the time, and come up short again."
Yet, perseverance paid off. "Now, to elevate yourself in a space that, you know, all your favorite players are in, everybody that they consider greats or legends have won a championship, and all of the guys I looked up to won a championship, multiple championships. Now I can, like, walk in those rooms and be a part of that. It's a hell of a feeling. This is more -- I dreamed about what it would be like, but this is 10 times better," said Tatum.
The team’s internal environment also played a pivotal role. "To me, teams thrive when there's little drama and they're moving in one direction," noted one insider, emphasizing the importance of unity and focus.
The Celtics have shown that with patience, strategic changes, and a focus on team chemistry, they can overcome challenges and achieve greatness. For Tatum and Brown, the journey wasn't just about talent; it was about growth, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.