Boston, MA The confetti had barely settled on the hallowed parquet floor of TD Garden when Jayson Tatum, the young phenom and Finals MVP, sent shockwaves through the basketball world. In the euphoric aftermath of the Boston Celtics’ first NBA championship since 2008, Tatum confidently proclaimed Larry Bird not only the greatest Celtic of all time but the greatest player in the history of the NBA.
The declaration came during the team’s post-game press conference, where Tatum, still draped in his celebratory jersey, sat flanked by the NBA Championship trophy and Finals MVP award. His words struck a chord with Celtics fans, reigniting a perennial debate among basketball enthusiasts.
Tatum’s Meteoric Rise
At just 26 years old, Tatum’s journey to his first championship has been remarkable. Drafted third overall in the 2017 NBA Draft, Tatum quickly established himself as a cornerstone for the Celtics, a franchise steeped in basketball lore. Over the past six seasons, he has evolved from a promising rookie to a bona fide superstar, known for his clutch performances, silky smooth scoring ability, and unrelenting work ethic.
This season, Tatum elevated his game to new heights, averaging 30.1 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game during the regular season. His leadership throughout the playoffs, including a dazzling 48-point performance in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Milwaukee Bucks, cemented his status as one of the league’s brightest stars.
But despite his accolades, Tatum has always remained vocal about his respect for the legends who came before him—especially the late Bill Russell and, of course, Larry Bird.
The Championship That Changed Everything
The Celtics’ championship run was a testament to grit and determination. They faced formidable opponents at every stage, including the Miami Heat in the Finals, where Tatum outdueled Jimmy Butler in an epic six-game series. In Game 6, Tatum delivered a masterclass performance, scoring 41 points while adding 11 rebounds and 8 assists to secure Boston’s 18th title—the most in NBA history, surpassing the Los Angeles Lakers.
For Tatum, the win wasn’t just about personal achievement. It was about honouring the legacy of Celtics greats who set the standard for excellence. “When you put on this jersey, you represent something bigger than yourself,” Tatum said in the post-game interview. “You represent a tradition, a brotherhood, and a level of unmatched greatness.”
The Proclamation Heard Around the League
When asked to name the greatest player in Celtics history, Tatum didn’t hesitate. “It’s Larry Legend,” he said with a smile. “Larry Bird is the greatest Celtic of all time, and in my opinion, the greatest player to ever play the game.”
The room buzzed with excitement as Tatum elaborated on his reasoning. “I grew up watching highlights of Larry. He wasn’t the flashiest guy, but he didn’t need to be. He just dominated in every aspect of the game. His basketball IQ, his competitiveness, and the way he made everyone around him better—it’s unmatched.”
Tatum went further, comparing Bird’s influence on the game to other all-time greats like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James. “They all had their unique greatness, but what Larry did with the Celtics in the ‘80s, against all those legendary teams, it just resonates with me. He’s the standard we all strive for.”
Larry Bird’s Legacy: A Look Back
Larry Bird’s name is synonymous with Celtics basketball. A 12-time NBA All-Star, three-time MVP, and three-time NBA champion, Bird dominated the league throughout the 1980s. Known for his unparalleled court vision, deadly shooting touch, and fierce competitiveness, Bird played his entire career in Boston, becoming the face of the franchise.
Bird’s rivalry with Magic Johnson defined an era, elevating the NBA to unprecedented popularity. Beyond the accolades, Bird’s impact on the Celtics is deeply ingrained in the franchise’s culture. From his iconic step-back jumper to his jaw-dropping no-look passes, Bird’s influence is felt in every generation of Celtics players—including Tatum.
The Celtics Family Reacts
Tatum’s declaration drew widespread praise from the Celtics organisation and former players. Paul Pierce, another Celtics legend, tweeted, “Tatum knows his history. Larry Legend is GOATed, no debate.”
Danny Ainge, who played alongside Bird and served as the Celtics’ general manager for many years, also weighed in. “Larry Bird set the bar for what it means to be a Celtic. It’s great to see Jayson carrying that torch while respecting the legacy,” Ainge said in an interview with The Boston Globe.
Fans at the championship parade echoed similar sentiments. “Larry Bird built this city’s basketball identity, and now Jayson Tatum is adding to that legacy. It’s incredible to see,” said lifelong Celtics fan Sarah Donovan, proudly waving a green and white flag.
The GOAT Debate Rekindled
Tatum’s comments have reignited the age-old “Greatest of All Time” debate in basketball circles. While many agree that Bird is the greatest Celtic, the discussion of NBA GOAT often includes other names like Jordan, LeBron, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.
Analysts were quick to dissect Tatum’s claim. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith called Tatum’s statement “a bold and heartfelt nod to one of the game’s icons.” However, others, like TNT’s Charles Barkley, took a more measured approach. “I love Larry Bird, but the GOAT debate is so subjective. What matters is that Tatum understands and honours that history,” Barkley said on Inside the NBA.
Tatum’s Place in Celtics Lore
With a championship now under his belt, Tatum has already etched his name alongside the Celtics’ greats. But at just 26, his story is far from finished. Many believe this title is the first of several for the budding superstar, whose potential seems limitless.
Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla, who has been instrumental in Tatum’s development, summed it up perfectly: “Jayson’s respect for the past is part of what makes him so special. He doesn’t just want to be great; he wants to be part of a legacy. And tonight, he made history.”
Looking Ahead
As the Celtics revel in their championship triumph, the focus will inevitably shift to the future. Can Tatum lead Boston to a new dynasty? Will his career one day rival Bird’s? For now, Celtics fans are content to savour the moment.
Tatum’s proclamation serves as a reminder of the deep connection between the franchise’s past and present. In honouring Larry Bird, Tatum has not only solidified his place as a true Celtic but also set the stage for an exciting new chapter in the team’s storied history.
And as the sun rises over Boston, one thing is clear: Jayson Tatum is just getting started.