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Jayson Tatum and LeBron James greet each other before a game.
Injured NBA superstar Jayson Tatum made an appearance on ESPN’s First Take to discuss his injury rehab, his upcoming shoe release, and general NBA topics. Tatum got the chance to speak in-depth for the first time since suffering his torn Achilles during the NBA Playoffs. Stephen A. Smith brought up the topic of Tatum getting drafted third overall in the 2017 NBA Draft and the Philadelphia 76ers not wanting him.
Tatum was the one to remind everyone that the Los Angeles Lakers had the second pick in between the 76ers and Boston Celtics. When asked about other teams passing on him, Tatum said his fandom of Kobe Bryant made him wish the Lakers drafted him during the interview.
“Kobe was my favorite player, and the Lakers were my favorite team growing up. You get so close to accomplishing your dream and you see the Lakers have the second pick. That hurt a little, feeling like there was no consideration they wanted to draft me.”
Tatum would have changed a franchise’s landscape if the 76ers or Lakers drafted him. Instead, both teams passed and let him fall to the Celtics roster that felt much closer to becoming a contender if they landed a franchise player to round out their roster.
Tatum Felt Disrespected Falling To Third
The conversation about Tatum’s draft position turned to Stephen A. Smith asking him about the 76ers. Tatum made it clear he didn’t dream of playing for the 76ers to make it feel different than the Lakers. However, it still felt like a slap in the face to have two teams pass on him after how great he looked as a prospect after playing one season for Duke.
“I wanted to be the number one pick, and I felt like I was the best player, so I was upset a little at first,” Tatum said before expressing that his memory lasted to seek revenge against Philadelphia. Tatum reminded us that he defeated the 76ers to eliminate them all three times they played each other in the postseason.
History hasn’t been kind to Philadelphia’s decision. The 76ers traded up to draft Markelle Fultz, an all-time draft blunder given they could have stayed at No. 3 and taken Tatum while Boston was set on moving down. With Ben Simmons flaming out and Joel Embiid battling constant health issues, Tatum could have completely altered the course of the franchise.
Kobe Bryant Remains Tatum’s Mentor
Tatum was one of the fortunate few NBA players who received guidance directly from Kobe Bryant. For a lifelong fan, getting to learn from his idol was a dream come true. Had the Lakers drafted him, Tatum might have become their next franchise cornerstone. However, LeBron James’ eventual arrival in Los Angeles could have altered that path.
Tatum emphasized, however, that he feels grateful for how things turned out as the best-case scenario. Playing for the Celtics gave him the chance to represent another historic franchise. If he couldn’t wear the purple and gold, suiting up for their rival and crafting his own legacy for a historic franchise was the next best thing with nearly flawless results so far.
Joey Haverford Joey Haverford is a seasoned sports content writer with over 12 years of experience. He has covered the NBA, WNBA, MLB, NFL, and professional wrestling in the sports industry. More about Joey Haverford
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