Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics superstar, recently shared his thoughts on playing alongside NBA legends LeBron James, Steph Curry, and Kevin Durant for Team USA. Tatum, who won a gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, finds this year’s experience unique due to the presence of these iconic players on the roster.
In a recent episode of the “7PM in Brooklyn” podcast with Carmelo Anthony and Kid Mero, Tatum expressed his awe and admiration for his new teammates. Having faced these players numerous times in the NBA, he spoke about the surreal experience of playing alongside them.
“I’ve been in the league for seven years, so I’ve played against all these guys,” Tatum said. “You know on that level and had to go against KD in the playoffs twice and ‘Bron, and played against Steph in the Finals. So I have that level of appreciation for them. … We did photos the other day and those three went off to the side and took pictures. I had to take a step back and be like, ‘Man, those are the three best players to ever play this game.'”
Tatum’s admiration was evident as he continued, “We all teammates right now going to try and win a gold medal. … I don’t know if it was a fan or the kid in me, but I was like, ‘Man, this is dope. I’m on a team with KD, ‘Bron, and Steph.'”
“Those are three of the best players ever to play the game.”
Jayson Tatum reflects on chasing a gold medal with Lebron, Steph, and KD
New episode drops tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/x6sHNzts20
— 7PM in Brooklyn (@7PMinBrooklyn) July 10, 2024
Tatum’s experience is bolstered by the presence of other NBA superstars. The Team USA roster includes Anthony Davis, Anthony Edwards, Devin Booker, Tyrese Haliburton, Bam Adebayo, Joel Embiid, Jrue Holiday, and Derrick White. This star-studded lineup is considered one of the greatest teams ever assembled, adding immense pressure and excitement to their Olympic journey.
Jayson Tatum previously played with Kevin Durant during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where they secured a gold medal. However, this will be his first time playing with LeBron James and Steph Curry in an international competition. The Celtics star’s enthusiasm for this unique opportunity is palpable, as he balances his professional respect with a fan’s admiration.
Tatum’s reflections highlight the unique camaraderie and mutual respect among elite athletes. Despite fierce competition in the NBA, these players come together with a shared goal, representing their country on the international stage. This unity exemplifies the spirit of sportsmanship and the profound impact of international competitions in fostering bonds among the world’s best athletes.
Jayson Tatum’s sentiments capture a beautiful paradox in professional sports: the coexistence of fierce rivalry and deep admiration. His experience underscores the transformative power of sports, where competitors can become allies, and legends can inspire even their peers. Tatum’s humility and awe, despite his own superstar status, offer a refreshing perspective on the often cutthroat world of professional basketball.
In addition to his Olympic journey, Jayson Tatum was recently announced as one of the cover athletes for NBA 2K25. 2K Sports revealed that Tatum will feature on the covers of both the Standard Edition and the All-Star Edition of the game. He will be joined by Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson on the All-Star Edition cover, while Vince Carter will grace the Hall of Fame Edition cover.
Tatum’s reaction to the news was deeply emotional. On an episode of “The Old Man and the Three” podcast, he shared that he cried after his son Deuce delivered the news on his birthday. “I actually got like teary-eyed. I kind of cried a little bit. Just because I feel like I’m very blessed and fortunate that when I was younger, I had so many dreams and goals and things I wanted to check off, and I’m experiencing those things in real time,” Jayson Tatum said.
This is how @jaytatum0 and @_ajawilson22 found out they were the next @NBA2K cover athletes.
Watch their full conversation with guest host @S10Bird on YouTube: https://t.co/TAly1pdbQN pic.twitter.com/kH1PrgJ4B7
— TheOldMan&TheThree (@OldManAndThree) July 10, 2024
Jayson Tatum’s journey with Team USA and his recent NBA 2K25 cover feature illustrate his ascent in the basketball world. As he prepares to compete alongside legends in the Paris Olympic Games, Tatum’s humility and excitement offer a compelling narrative of admiration, respect, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
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