Which Team Drafted Jayson Tatum? Find Out Here!

Hey guys! If you're a basketball fan, especially if you follow the NBA, you've definitely heard of Jayson Tatum. This dude is a bona fide superstar! But do you know the story of how he got into the league? More specifically, which team drafted Jayson Tatum? Let's dive into the details of the 2017 NBA Draft and uncover the team that first took a chance on this incredible talent. Understanding the draft process and Tatum's journey is essential for any true hoops enthusiast.

The 2017 NBA Draft

The 2017 NBA Draft was held on June 22, 2017, at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. This draft class was considered one of the deepest in recent memory, boasting potential franchise cornerstones like Markelle Fultz, Lonzo Ball, and, of course, Jayson Tatum. NBA teams were salivating at the prospect of landing a game-changing player. The anticipation and excitement surrounding the draft were palpable, as each team meticulously scouted and analyzed prospects to determine who would best fit their needs and future aspirations. The draft is a crucial event where teams can reshape their destinies, and the 2017 edition was no exception, packed with talent and potential.

The Celtics' Strategy

The Boston Celtics, led by their shrewd general manager Danny Ainge, held the first overall pick heading into the draft. However, Ainge, known for his strategic maneuvering, saw an opportunity to acquire more assets while still landing a top prospect. In a surprising move, the Celtics traded the first overall pick to the Philadelphia 76ers. This trade allowed the 76ers to select Markelle Fultz, who was widely considered the consensus number one pick at the time. The Celtics, in return, received the 76ers' third overall pick and a future first-round pick, setting the stage for them to still acquire a significant talent while bolstering their draft capital. This move showcased Ainge's calculated approach to team building, prioritizing long-term success and flexibility.

Draft Day Drama

On draft night, the Philadelphia 76ers selected Markelle Fultz with the first overall pick as expected. The Los Angeles Lakers then selected Lonzo Ball with the second overall pick, fulfilling Magic Johnson's desire to bring the hometown hero to LA. With the third overall pick, which they had acquired from the 76ers, the Boston Celtics selected Jayson Tatum from Duke University. This pick was met with mixed reactions initially, as some analysts questioned whether Tatum was the best fit for the Celtics compared to other prospects available. However, the Celtics brass clearly saw immense potential in Tatum's polished offensive game and his ability to develop into a star player. This decision would ultimately prove to be a franchise-altering moment for the Celtics.

Jayson Tatum's Journey to the NBA

Before becoming an NBA star, Jayson Tatum honed his skills through years of dedication and hard work. Let's take a look at his early career.

High School Career

Tatum attended Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis, Missouri, where he quickly established himself as one of the top high school players in the nation. As a freshman, he averaged an impressive 13.7 points and 5.7 rebounds per game, showcasing his natural talent and potential. By his senior year, Tatum was a dominant force, averaging 29.5 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. He earned numerous accolades, including being named the Gatorade National Player of the Year and a McDonald's All-American. His exceptional performances and leadership qualities made him a highly sought-after recruit by top college basketball programs across the country. Tatum's high school career laid the foundation for his future success, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to excellence.

College Career

Tatum committed to Duke University, joining the prestigious Blue Devils program under the legendary coach Mike Krzyzewski. In his lone season at Duke, Tatum averaged 16.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, demonstrating his versatility and scoring prowess. He quickly became a key player for the Blue Devils, showcasing his ability to score from anywhere on the court and his willingness to compete on both ends of the floor. Despite battling injuries early in the season, Tatum's impact was undeniable, leading Duke to the NCAA Tournament. Though their tournament run was cut short, Tatum's performance solidified his status as a top NBA prospect. His time at Duke provided him with invaluable experience and exposure, preparing him for the challenges of the professional game.

Jayson Tatum: A Celtic Through and Through

So, to answer the burning question: Jayson Tatum was drafted by the Boston Celtics with the third overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. Since joining the Celtics, Tatum has blossomed into one of the league's premier players, earning multiple All-Star selections and leading the team to deep playoff runs. His scoring ability, defensive improvements, and leadership qualities have made him an indispensable part of the Celtics' core. Boston fans have embraced Tatum as their own, recognizing his dedication and commitment to the team's success. The Celtics' decision to draft Tatum has proven to be a franchise-altering move, setting the stage for sustained competitiveness and championship aspirations.

Impact on the Celtics

Tatum's arrival in Boston immediately injected the Celtics with a dose of youthful talent and potential. He quickly adapted to the NBA game, showcasing his offensive skills and demonstrating a willingness to learn and improve. As he matured, Tatum's impact on the Celtics grew exponentially. He developed into a go-to scorer, capable of creating his own shot and delivering clutch performances in crucial moments. His defensive efforts also improved significantly, making him a more complete and well-rounded player. Tatum's leadership qualities emerged as he took on a larger role within the team, guiding the Celtics through challenging situations and inspiring his teammates to perform at their best. His presence has transformed the Celtics into a perennial contender, consistently vying for Eastern Conference supremacy.

Awards and Achievements

Throughout his NBA career, Jayson Tatum has amassed an impressive list of awards and achievements, solidifying his status as one of the league's top players. He has been selected as an NBA All-Star multiple times, showcasing his popularity and recognition among fans and peers. Tatum has also earned All-NBA honors, further validating his exceptional performance and impact on the game. In addition to individual accolades, Tatum has led the Celtics to significant team success, including multiple deep playoff runs and an NBA Finals appearance. His contributions have been instrumental in the Celtics' resurgence as a championship contender. As he continues to develop and refine his game, Tatum is poised to add even more accomplishments to his already remarkable resume, cementing his legacy as one of the Celtics' all-time greats.

The Future is Bright

Looking ahead, the future appears incredibly bright for both Jayson Tatum and the Boston Celtics. Tatum is still relatively young, with plenty of room to grow and improve. As he gains more experience and refines his skills, he has the potential to reach even greater heights, potentially becoming an MVP candidate and leading the Celtics to an NBA championship. The Celtics, with Tatum as their cornerstone, are well-positioned to remain a top contender in the Eastern Conference for years to come. The combination of Tatum's talent, the Celtics' strong supporting cast, and the team's rich history creates a promising outlook for sustained success. Boston fans have every reason to be excited about the future, as they witness Tatum's journey towards greatness unfold before their eyes.

So there you have it! The Boston Celtics drafted Jayson Tatum, and it's been an amazing partnership ever since. Keep following his career; it's going to be epic!