In Photos: St. Louis Cardinals don Jayson Tatum jerseys rooting for hometown NBA player to secure his first-ever championship
Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum got a show of support from the St. Louis Cardinals as they put on the star forward's jersey, hoping for the Celtics to win the NBA Finals. The support from Tatum's hometown has always existed as the Cardinals never fail to show love to the young basketball star.
Tatum has guided the Celtics to the finals for the second time since 2022. This time, the team has more experience on what to do on the biggest stage as they take on the Dallas Mavericks. Currently, Boston has a 2-0 advantage as they travel to Dallas for Game 3 on Wednesday.
For Game 3, the Cardinals showed how much they support their hometown hero as they put on Tatum's jersey. According to reporter Jacob Cersosimo, it was pitcher Ryan Helsley's idea to put on the Tatum's jersey and the entire team agreed.
Take a look at the photos below.
The support between Tatum and the Cardinals has been mutual, as the NBA star has often visited their games. Last August 2023, the Celtics star threw out the first pitch with his son, Duece.
Also read: "Why would I let my ego or my need to score get in the way"- Jayson Tatum shows maturity citing 2022 NBA Finals heartbreak
Former sixth-man winner praised Jayson Tatum despite shooting woes
Jayson Tatum hasn't been a great offensive weapon against the Mavericks in the finals this year. During the first two games, the star forward has not shot the ball well. Despite this, the Celtics are in control and have captured Games 1 and 2, which is a significant advantage for the Eastern Conference champions.
Tatum hasn't cracked the 20-point mark in the first two games and has shot 31.6% from the field. He's averaged 17 points, 10 rebounds and 8.5 assists while also shooting 28.6% from behind the arc. However, that hasn't been a major problem for the Celtics as they are in the driver's seat in the series.
Three-time Sixth Man of the Year winner, Jamal Crawford, had huge praise for Tatum. Even though the Celtics forward hasn't been a threat offensively, the former Duke standout has kept a calm composure and is shrugging off the outside noise.
"I salute Jayson Tatum. His team is UP 2-0 in the finals. And some are criticizing he’s not going for 40 every night," Crawford posted on X. "Looking at stats, and percentages, then will say 'but it’s all about winning' lol. Make it make sense."
Tatum hasn't allowed his ego to get the best of him. Through this, his teammates have taken the opportunity to pick up his offensive slack.
Also read: "People try to drive a wedge between us" - Jayson Tatum retorts to Jason Kidd calling Jaylen Brown as Celtics' top player