Watch: When rookie Jayson Tatum shares learning moves from Paul Pierce after his father’s advice
Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics is currently one of the best offensive players in the NBA. His ability to score from anywhere is a true talent, but he also learned a few tricks from a Celtics legend.
Back in his rookie year in 2017, Tatum had a chance to spend time with one of the best scorers of the 2000s, Paul Pierce. Pierce's offensive bag is quite limitless as he's able to score from anywhere on the floor. For Tatum, this was nothing new, as his dad told him to watch how The Truth played in order for him to improve his game.
The two talked about their abilities, and Tatum shared his father's influence in incorporating other players' skills on the court.
"It started when I was younger, 'cause all I used to want to do was shoot fadeaways like Kobe (Bryant), 'cause he's my favorite player. But my dad was always like, listen, he always pulls up your highlight tapes on YouTube. Like, this, 'You need to watch The Truth, Paul Pierce.'" Tatum said.
"He was like, 'He athletic, but he not the most athletic guy, but he still find a way to get his shot off everytime.' ... And I started watching you, and I was like, 'Yeah, I see that.'"
"My dad was always like... you need to watch The Truth."
@jaytatum0 x @paulpierce34
CELTICS/KINGS, 8pm/et, NBA App https://t.co/emvVpM6B27
His dad's advice proved to be an effective strategy as he's been able to score without relying too much on his athleticism. Although he's far more athletic than Pierce was, Tatum has learned to be a tricky player this early in his career. He's now turned into a problem for the opposing defenses.
The three-time All-Star is currently playing like an MVP candidate and has led the Celtics to a 14-4 record. The Boston Celtics take on the Sacramento Kings on Friday night.
Also read: Jayson Tatum's son Deuce is his dad's priority amid growing stature: "He doesn't like when people ask for pictures...he wants the attention"
The elite offensive skills of Jayson Tatum have turned him into an MVP candidate this season
As the 2022-23 NBA season progresses, Jayson Tatum has continued to impress the masses. He started his campaign as an MVP candidate and has not fallen off even after almost 20 games. Tatum has been consistent, which could be his ticket to winning the MVP this season.
The two-time All-NBA selection is having a career year, especially in scoring. Through the first 18 games, Tatum is averaging 30.6 points, 7.9 rebounds 4.7 assistst and 1.3 blocks. He's also making his shots at a decent rate. The Celtics star is knocking down 47.2% of his shots, including 35.3% of his 3-pointers.
Basketball analyst Stephen A. Smith believes that Tatum should be the leading candidate for the award.
"I think it's time for us to start talking about Jayson Tatum as a leading candidate for league MVP," Smith said. "Jayson Tatum is clearly the star of this basketball team. They are clearly the best team in the Eastern Conference right now."
Also read: NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) race featuring Donovan Mitchell, Jayson Tatum and more: November 25, 2022 | Latest Power Rankings by Sportskeeda