Boston’s immediate future changed when its superstar Jayson Tatum ruptured his right Achilles tendon. They have traded players and are trying to be under the second apron, with a squad that many are calling will play the ‘gap year’. But one thing that hasn’t changed is the commitment from JT, not only towards the Celtics but going above and beyond on giving back and remembering his roots to this day. And he wasn’t alone in his recent philanthropic work.
It’s been 11 weeks into his rehab journey, where the fans have gotten a glimpse of his road to recovery. Even though the injury is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the 2025–26 season, Tatum showed up in his hometown of St. Louis that too, without any walking boot. But why was he back in his native place? Because of the annual Jayson Tatum Foundation Charity, which had multiple events lined up in the past few days. Through the foundation, the 6x All-Star runs basketball camps and back-to-school giveaways.
Plus, they offer scholarships and mentorship to high schoolers in the city. During the 5th Annual JTF Charity Golf Tournament in partnership with the Michael Jordan brand, the Celtics star explained his message and one advice to the next generation. “Not to get discouraged, I always tell people whenever they ask for advices, never let somebody tell you what you can’t do. If you believe strong enough, if you work hard enough, and nobody was ever successful by themselves.”
Jayston Tatum did not stop there and shared that everybody needs a strong support group to get through the difficult moments in life. He claimed that being from the same environment and the same neighborhood will help some of the kids to propel themselves into any field they want to excel in. The 27-year-old felt it was empowering, and that’s why he comes back to spend some time with the local youth. “I believe anything is possible. And that’s why it’s so important to me to come back home. It’s one thing for the kids to see me on TV and just know me from St. Louis. But when I actually come back and spend time with them so they can actually talk to me and spend time and touch me.”
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Helping him raise more money and spend some time with him were the members of the Celtics coaching staff. The JTF added an Instagram story, “Celtics coaching staff at the JTF golf tournament “. Even Jayson Tatum couldn’t hold his laughter in when he saw one of the assistants hit it wide instead of a straight hit. It was Amile Jefferson who couldn’t connect in his first attempt, but made the changes while taking his second. The thing to note is that the golfing was not the only event from the foundation.
Jayson Tatum had another support hand, not from the Celtics team
A few days ago, the JTF carried out a task to help the kids with essentials. From books, supplies, and a bit of joy to carry them through the break, and helping Tatum was his junior. Yes, seven-year-old son, Jayson “Deuce” Christopher Tatum Jr. stepped up and helped like a true volunteer during the event. So, not only is JT setting up the right example of giving back, but also making his son understand the importance. That’s why a few days ago, there was even a basketball camp.
It was held at the very community center where he once honed his own game. Kids welcomed their hometown hero and later were part of basketball drills and scrimmages. Jayson Tatum delivered a strong message once again about leadership skills and taking up responsibilities. Apart from the hoop lessons, the kids also participated in essay and art competitions to channel their inner creativity. In fact, to showcase responsibility and leadership, the campers had to build and race balloon-powered cars as a team.
It was not about which team is superior, but how to communicate and build together. Their reward, too, was sweet, just like JT’s 2024 championship. Tatum made sure every single kid went home with a huge smile—and a brand new iPad. So, the return to St. Louis was eventful, and everything that the 6x All-Star wanted to do, amid his recovery.
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