Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is already enjoying a successful and lucrative life, but three-time NBA champion Sam Cassell believes that winning an NBA championship with the Celtics could make Tatum’s life even better. Tatum, 25 years old, is a key player for the Celtics, earning $32.6 million in the 2023-24 season, with potential salary increases in the following years. The team currently leads the Eastern Conference with a record of 16-5.
Cassell, speaking in an interview with Boston.com’s Khari Thompson, expressed the potential life-changing impact of winning a championship in Boston. Despite Tatum’s already impressive career and financial standing, Cassell emphasized that the experience of winning a title with the Celtics could elevate his life even further. Cassell, with his own experience of winning titles with the Houston Rockets and Boston Celtics, highlighted the unique significance of winning in Boston due to its rich basketball tradition.
The three-time NBA champion acknowledged the special nature of winning in Houston as the city’s first championship but emphasized the awe-inspiring experience of winning in Boston. Cassell, who joined the Celtics in 2008 and played a role in their championship run under coach Doc Rivers, described the tradition and impact of winning a title in Boston as “wild.”
Tatum, since joining the Celtics as the third overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft, has already achieved notable success individually, making multiple All-Star teams and All-NBA nods. However, a championship has remained elusive for Tatum, with the Celtics reaching the Eastern Conference Finals four times during his tenure but falling short in the ultimate quest for an NBA title.
In the current 2023-24 season, the Celtics are positioned as a strong contender, leading the Eastern Conference with a 16-5 record. Basketball Reference’s simple rating system (SRS) indicates that the team is outpacing other contenders by a significant margin, raising expectations for a deep playoff run. Analysts suggest that if the Celtics surpass the 60-win threshold, Tatum could not only enjoy MVP buzz but also potentially elevate his already successful life with an NBA championship.
In summary, while Tatum’s life is already enviable, the prospect of securing an NBA championship with the Boston Celtics, according to Cassell, could add an extra layer of fulfillment and significance to his flourishing career and personal success.
