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[Saba Sports News] Celtics star Jayson Tatum shared a nostalgic moment on Instagram this week, catching attention with a list of his childhood goals. The list, from a fourth-grade assignment, outlined his dreams for 20 years in the future, including ambitions to play for the Lakers and Suns.
“Twenty years from now I will have gone to one year at Ohio State University where I will have met Kristen. We will have gotten married and have two children, a boy and a girl,” wrote the young Tatum. “We will have a big house in Phoenix, Arizona. I will play for the Suns for six years then I will be traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. I will play basketball for a living as if it will be my dream come true.”
While Tatum initially wanted to attend Ohio State, he became a star at Duke University, averaging 16.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, 2.1 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game. The Celtics selected him No. 3 overall in the NBA draft, recognizing his talent and potential.
Despite his connections to Phoenix, Tatum has never played for the Suns. His presence would have been a significant boost, especially alongside Devin Booker. The Lakers also had a chance to draft Tatum in 2017 but chose Lonzo Ball instead. Tatum has since led the Celtics to multiple deep playoff runs and their first championship in years.
After signing a historic five-year, $315 million contract, Tatum’s future is firmly with the Celtics. At 26, Tatum has become one of the best players in the game, fulfilling his childhood dreams, even if not exactly as he imagined. His achievements highlight the missed opportunities for both the Suns and Lakers to transform their franchises.