Jayson Tatum, the Boston Celtics player, has spoken out about the trials of being an NBA father. In a guest post for the NBA’s Starting 5 newsletter, Tatum discusses juggling his professional basketball career and his position as a parent to his 5½-year-old son, Jayson “Deuce” Christopher Jr.

Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics holds his son Deuce Tatum on the field after the Celtics defeated the Charlotte Hornets 120-111 at TD Garden on April 28, 2021 in Boston, Massachusetts.

Tatum expressed thankfulness for the great moments he has with his son, especially their bonding over basketball games. He recalled the thrill of watching his kid grow and their shared memories at the TD Garden, where they both grew up.

However, Tatum acknowledged the challenges of balancing his profession and occasionally missing significant occasions in his son’s life. He described being unable to attend school activities or basketball sessions due to his hectic schedule on the road, as well as missing Deuce’s birthday on occasion. Tatum stressed that, despite being in his sixth season in the NBA, it is still difficult for him to live with missing out on these special times because children grow up so rapidly.

Whether basketball season is in full flow or not, Jayson Tatum emphasizes starting his day with his son, Deuce, whenever they are together. He explained that now that Deuce is in school, he wakes up at 6:30 a.m. to get him dressed and ready for school, realizing the value of being present for him in the morning.

Tatum’s first goal is being a father, and he makes time for his son every day, no matter how busy his schedule is. Some of their most cherished moments together have occurred during automobile drives, which have left both of them with enduring memories.

During Tatum’s offseason, they go on amazing excursions together. They enjoy vacations, including travels abroad and beach outings where they may swim all day, which Deuce really enjoys. Tatum finds immense joy in being able to provide for his son and expose him to experiences he did not have as a child.

Furthermore, Tatum values include Deuce in his charitable endeavors. He brings his son back to his hometown of St. Louis and involves him in events like basketball camps, back-to-school giveaways, and a golf tournament for his charity. Tatum believes that Deuce should learn the value of giving back to the community from a young age.

Jayson Tatum became a parent at the age of 19 to his son, Deuce, whom he shares with his ex-girlfriend Toriah Lachell. Deuce has now become a revered figure among Celtics fans and NBA players alike.

Tatum spoke during a press conference last year on the importance of becoming a father and the great bond he has with his son. He stated that 2017 was a critical year for him because it represented the start of his NBA career and the birth of his child.

Tatum highlighted his determination to achieve as both a father and a basketball player, unwilling to give up either job. He agreed that there was no clear rule for navigating this dual role, but highlighted the significance of doing what seems natural.

Tatum reminisced on his trip, highlighting the strong bond he has with Deuce. Growing up together while Tatum entered the NBA at a young age has been an unforgettable experience for both of them. The Celtics star finds it extremely fulfilling to observe their development and share crucial moments as they pursue their different goals.

For Tatum, the ability to accompany his son on this trip has been the most astonishing aspect of fatherhood, allowing them to build lifelong memories and cement their bond as they age together.