Boston Celtics Legend Bill Russell Challenged Jayson Tatum as he Prepares for Warriors Matchup

Posted on by Jack Marks

After another tremendous game with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, Jayson Tatum sealed his first NBA Finals participation with the Larry Bird Award. The series got off to a shaky start for Tatum, as the Celtics dropped Game 1 following a third-quarter meltdown. The Celtics’ turnovers were a major factor in their demise, and Tatum may be held guilty for six of them.

Tatum put up 29 points on 21 field-goal tries and nine free throw attempts, but the game ended in a defeat owing in part to him. Game 2 was a rebound game for Tatum and the Celtics, with Tatum scoring 27 points, five rebounds, and five assists in a highly efficient performance.

Jayson Tatum

Bill Russell, a Celtics icon, was one of the first to congratulate Boston and Tatum on their historic feat. From 1956 through 1969, Bill was a center for the Boston Celtics. He was the nucleus of the Celtics dynasty, who won eleven NBA titles during his 13-year career. He was a five-time NBA Most Valuable Player and a 12-time NBA All-Star.

Bill Russell’s appreciation for Jayson Tatum

As the Celtics and Tatum prepare to face the powerhouse Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals, Bill Russell also issued a daring challenge to Tatum.

“Congratulations to the #EasternConferenceFinals champions @celtics & to #JasonTatum for receiving the 1st ever LarryBird #ECFmvp award. Maybe soon the #BillRussellFinalsMVP award.”

The Celtics icon now wants Tatum to go one step further and win the NBA Finals as the best player. It’s an extremely difficult challenge against Stephen Curry and the Warriors, but it’s evident that Mr. Russell has complete faith in Tatum and the Celtics.

Tatum, Brown, and Smart became the second trio in NBA history to each score at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists during a Game 7 at the end of a series that left both teams hampered. Tatum and Brown exchanged hugs during the celebration. Can Tatum end the Warriors’ incredible run in the upcoming NBA Finals?