LeBron James heaps praises on Jason Tatum saying the 26-year-old Boston Celtics star is favorably progressing towards becoming an NBA all-time great.
In a recent episode of “Mind The Game” podcast, hosted by JJ Reddick, James drew parallels between Tatum’s path to success and his own journey, placing emphasis on Tatum’s age and potential.
James mentioned how exceptional Tatum’s journey has been so far – reaching four Conference Finals and one Championship final at the age of 26.
He compared it with his own history, stating he won his first Conference Final at the older age of 28.
He noted that this wasn’t a rarity in NBA history. Despite the prestige of being a three-time MVP, it wasn’t until James was 28 and playing with the Miami Heat that he had his first taste of championship success.
Jokić shared a similar timeline, only winning a title with the Denver Nuggets at the age of 27. Even Jordan took several shots at success before finally clinching his first championship with the Chicago Bulls at 28.
“He is 25, I didn’t win my first one until I was 28, I think Joker won his first one at 27. I think MJ was 28 as well. So like, I think we have, in a way a lot of expectations in JT. He has experienced a lot of winning in his career so far.”
“He's 25 years old, and I believe he has been to the conference finals four times and to the NBA finals once. He’s 25. I didn't win my first one until I was 28. I think Joker won his first one at 27. I think MJ was 28 as well… I think we have a lot of expectations on JT, but… pic.twitter.com/glZF4cgwcK
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) March 19, 2024
James expressed optimism about Tatum’s future. He feels that Tatum’s experience will only contribute to him ‘getting over the hump’ to title success.
“And obviously, everybody wanna see him get over the hump, but four conference finals and a Championship final before the age of 26 is elite. Like you just said, he has continued to grow and they are in a position where they can do another title run.”
LeBron & JJ Redick podcast 🍿 pic.twitter.com/W7UiFxi3CO
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) March 18, 2024
Even Kobe Bryant was 30 before he clinched a title with LA Lakers without the help of Shaquille O’Neal.
James has also commended Celtics readiness to push for a title challenge this year. The acquisition of Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday has repositioned them as potential title contenders.
The Celtics recently traded Malcolm Brogdon and Robert Williams III for Jrue Holiday. This strategy, along with their unprotected 2029 first-round pick and a 2024 first-round pick from the Golden State Warriors, has reinforced their regular season dominance.
