Jayson Tatum wished his longtime Boston Celtics running mate Jaylen Brown a heartfelt goodbye after the latter was reportedly traded to the Philadelphia 76ers.
"9 years! Forever grateful for all that we accomplished together, for pushing me to be a better player," Tatum posted with a photo of him and Brown on social media Friday. "From first-round exits to winning a chip together, I'm thankful for it all."
Tatum added: "Nothing but love and respect for you as a player and a person! Looking forward to see how you attack this next chapter of your career and wish nothing but the best for you! Continue to be special!"
Jayson Tatum: "Grateful for all that we accomplished together, for pushing me to be a better player. From 1st round exits to winning a chip together. I'm thankful for it all. Nothing but love & respect for you as a player & as a person...wish nothing but the best for you." pic.twitter.com/cFmjtMmVZ2
— Bobby Manning (@RealBobManning) July 3, 2026
Tatum and Brown were teammates on the Celtics since Tatum was drafted third overall ahead of the 2017-18 season. Brown arrived in Boston a year earlier, also going third overall in 2016. The two combined to lead the franchise to an NBA-record 18th title in 2024.
They reached their first Finals as a duo in 2022, falling short in six games against the Golden State Warriors. The Celtics never failed to reach the playoffs with the duo on the roster.
Philadelphia is reportedly sending Paul George, two first-round picks (including the 76ers' unprotected first in 2031), and two second-rounders to Boston for the 29-year-old Brown. The deal is not expected to be finalized until after Monday.
