Jayson Tatum Takes on Key Role in Duke Basketball Program
Duke gets a luxury reinforcement with the addition of Boston Celtics star and former Blue Devils player, Jayson Tatum. The university announced this Tuesday that the six-time NBA All-Star will take on a voluntary advisory role for the program, serving as “head of basketball.” Tatum is currently in the process of recovering after suffering a rupture of the right Achilles tendon in May, during the NBA playoffs. According to the institution’s statement, Tatum’s responsibilities will include in-person visits to the team to discuss topics such as development, professionalism, and team culture. In addition, he will advise athletes in key areas such as career management, personal brand building, and managing the time demands of being a college athlete. Tatum will also participate in periodic virtual meetings with the team and will discuss the roster composition with coach Jon Scheyer, in a program known for producing high-level talent for the NBA. Tatum was present at Duke’s “Countdown to Craziness” preseason event on Friday, ceremonially kicking off the season. Scheyer communicated to the fans that Tatum would collaborate with the program in the coming months.Tatum was a “one-and-done” star for the Blue Devils during the 2016-17 season, before being selected as the third pick in the draft. He became one of the best players in the NBA and helped Boston win the 2024 championship.This program has always focused on boosting the game. Jayson has been incredibly loyal to Duke since the day he committed, and this evolution represents the next step in how we connect The Brotherhood with the future of our players. Jayson is the ultimate professional. His ability to inspire, motivate, and guide our student-athletes is unmatched, and I am very excited to see the impact he will have on our team and our culture.
Jon Scheyer
This program means a lot to me, and I had an incredible experience here. I watch every game, return whenever I can, and connect with Coach Scheyer often. Having the opportunity to formalize my relationship with the program and expand my ability to impact the players and the culture means a lot to me. As former players, we all share the responsibility of supporting the next generation of Duke Basketball.
Jayson Tatum
