Jayson Tatum, the professional basketball player for the Boston Celtics, is a star on the court and a loving, dedicated father.
Tatum has openly expressed how fatherhood has transformed his life, balancing his NBA career with the joys and responsibilities of parenting.
Jayson Tatum And His Ex-Girlfriend Are Committed To Co-Parenting Their Son, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr.
Tatum’s first son, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., affectionately known as “Deuce,” was born on December 6, 2017.
Deuce quickly became a beloved figure among Boston Celtics fans, and his presence at his father’s games has turned him into the team’s unofficial mascot.
He is often seen courtside, cheering for his dad, joining him in interviews, or even sitting in the locker room.
His charm and confidence in the spotlight make him a natural fit alongside his famous father.
Meet Jayson Tatum’s baby mom and ex-girlfriend Toriah Lachell, who gave birth to Deuce Tatum
Posted by Celtics Fans Global on Saturday, February 10, 2024
Tatum shares Deuce with his high school girlfriend, Toriah Lachell, whom he met while attending Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis.
Though the couple had hoped to stay together, they ultimately separated shortly after Deuce’s birth.
However, they remain committed to co-parenting and ensuring Deuce’s well-being.
Tatum and Lachell have built a respectful co-parenting relationship, putting Deuce first as they share his upbringing.
The bond between Jayson and Deuce is undeniable.
Tatum has even tattooed his son’s name, “Deuce,” on his hand, evidence of the pride he feels as a father.
Jayson Tatum’s newest Air Jordan 36 PE celebrates one of his son Deuce’s favorite books — “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” — which they read together over FaceTime when Tatum was in the NBA Bubble. pic.twitter.com/2ZcGfXhHpI
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) December 8, 2021
In 2021, Tatum even debuted a custom pair of Air Jordans inspired by Deuce’s favorite book, “Brown Bear, What Do You See?” which added a unique, personal touch to his game-day attire.
Tatum frequently shares moments with Deuce on social media, capturing memories from birthdays to Halloween costumes and illustrating their precious father-son bond.
A New Chapter for Jayson
In a more recent story, Tatum and his long-term girlfriend, Ella Mia, were seen together for what appears to be the birth of their first child together.
ella mai gave birth!!!!! pic.twitter.com/8zurHe11B7
— aims (@yungaims) August 11, 2024
In June 2024, following the Celtics’ NBA Finals victory, a Twitter video showed Tatum, Ella, and their newborn baby during a photoshoot.
Tatum hasn’t spoken publicly about this new addition, but fans have noticed slight hints.
For instance, Tatum wore sneakers with “Deuce <3 Dylan” written on them during a preseason game, indirectly sharing his second child’s name with his fans.
While Tatum and Ella have been entirely private about their relationship and family life, Ella has been by Tatum’s side since 2019.
She first spotted him courtside at one of his games, and they have been seen together at various events since.
They have kept their relationship mostly out of the public eye, maintaining a more private family life.
Jayson Tatum’s Children: Source of Inspiration
For Tatum, the year 2017 marked both his selection as the third pick in the NBA Draft and the arrival of Deuce, events that he has called the biggest moments of his life.
Balancing his rising career with the demands of parenthood, Tatum continues to honor his role as a father in heartfelt and visible ways.
He even dedicated his first children’s book, Baby Dunks-a-Lot, to his relationship with Deuce, capturing the heart of their bond and celebrating his journey as a father.
The presence of Jayson Tatum’s children has brought Tatum a new sense of motivation and joy.
Whether it’s inspiring his dad’s signature Nike shoes or taking on the Celtics’ youngest, most enthusiastic supporter role, Deuce has made his place not only in Tatum’s life but also in the Celtics’ family.
With baby Dylan’s arrival, Tatum’s father’s role has grown even deeper.
His family-centered approach continues to resonate with fans on and off the court.
In Jayson Tatum’s story, fatherhood is as much a part of his legacy as his NBA achievements.
Jayson Tatum’s children have inspired him in ways beyond basketball, grounding him and fulfilling his aspirations both as a player and as a parent.
As he assumes this new chapter with Ella and their growing family, Tatum’s journey continues to capture the hearts of Celtics fans everywhere.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The Boston Celtics selected Tatum with the third overall pick in the 2017 NBA draft.
- Jayson Tatum was only 19 years old when his son, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., known as Deuce, was born.
- Tatum is the son of Justin Tatum, a former professional basketball player and the current head coach of the Illawarra Hawks in the NBL.
