Jayson Tatum, the beloved figure for the Boston Celtics, proudly displays an extensive collection of tattoos. These intricate artworks pay homage to his mother, son, and personal journey to the NBA.
At the heart of Tatum’s inked passion lies his father, former collegiate basketball player Justin Tatum, who himself had tattoos. Inspired by his father, Jayson developed a desire for tattoos, which he revealed in a 2019 interview with NBC Sports.
The NBA All-Star patiently waited until his rookie season in 2017 to get tattoos on his wrists, an experience he found incredibly painful. Initially, he swore he would never do it again. However, the birth of his son changed his perspective, and he decided to embellish his leg with a tribute to his son followed by an image of his mother.
Over time, Tatum’s tattoo collection expanded. As a devout Christian, he proudly displays “God’s Will” and “Proverbs 3:5-6” on his shoulders. His left calf features layers of his college and high school jerseys, while just above them, two Black Mamba snakes in the shape of the number 24 honor the late Kobe Bryant.
In 2022, Steve Wiebe, a significant contributor to Tatum’s tattoos, created a large collage on the left side of his back, commemorating his childhood home in St. Louis. Tatum holds a special place in his heart for St. Louis, evident through a mushroom cloud tattoo and the saying “St. Louis – ’til the world blows” adorning his right leg.
On his right leg, Tatum proudly displays a portrait of himself cradling his son, Jayson Jr., with the inscription “Like father, like son.” Furthermore, he has the year of his birth, “98,” inked on his right knee, and the nickname “Big Deuce” referring to his son, whom he affectionately calls “Deuce.”
Despite the pаin involved in getting tattoos, Tatum continues to expand his collection, each one carrying a significant meaning and telling a unique story.