In a recent interview, NBA star Jayson Tatum revealed an unexpected secret to his success on the basketball court, his mother’s early preparation for the demands of the NBA.
Reflecting on his childhood, Tatum recalled his mother, Brandy, regularly quizzing him with impromptu basketball questions.
Jayson Tatum never understood why his mother Brandy would ask him basketball questions as a young kid, but she was preparing him for the NBA 🙏
Shoutout to the moms who always believe! Happy Mother's Day ❤️
(via @TaylorRooks X) pic.twitter.com/QOvI9T79rU
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) May 13, 2024
He recounted moments when she would interrupt his playtime, wielding a brush or remote as a microphone, and pepper him with inquiries about how he would handle media interviews.
“At the time, I didn’t understand why she was doing it,” Tatum admitted. “I would often be annoyed and ask, ‘Mom, who’s going to ask me these questions?'”
Brandy’s response was simple yet prophetic. “Duh, the reporters from ESPN and TNT,” she would say. “You’re going to be one of the best players in the world.”
Tatum laughed at the time, but as his basketball career flourished, he came to appreciate the foresight and dedication his mother showed in preparing him for the spotlight of the NBA.
Now a standout player for the Boston Celtics, Tatum credits his mother’s early training for helping him navigate the demands and expectations of professional basketball. Her lessons in media readiness and handling pressure have undoubtedly contributed to his success on and off the court.
