Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum spoke publicly for the first time about the trade that sent his longtime co-star Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers.
The blockbuster deal, completed this week, moved the former Finals MVP to a division rival in exchange for veteran forward Paul George, two first-round picks, and two second-round selections.
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During a promotional Q&A session for an upcoming book on Tuesday night, Tatum reflected on the nine seasons he and Brown spent together in Boston.
"You play on a team with a guy for nine years," Tatum said.
"I was fortunate enough to go to the [NBA] Finals with him twice, and win a championship, and push each other to be the players that we are today."
The duo helped secure the franchise's historic 18th championship in 2024, with Brown earning NBA Finals MVP honors after the Celtics defeated the Dallas Mavericks in five games.
"It's tough. But it just makes you appreciate the moments and time that we had," Tatum added.
"Obviously, it came to an abrupt ending, but it doesn't mean that it wasn't super successful.
Great years, obviously, that he gave to the city and to the organization."
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Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens explained the front office's rationale on Monday, citing the need for financial flexibility and roster optionality given the massive combined salaries of Tatum and Brown.
