Celtics’ Jayson Tatum Officially Named One of Top 100 NBA Players of All Time, Cementing His Emerging Legacy in Boston

In a milestone moment that signals his rapid ascent into basketball immortality, Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has officially been named one of the top 100 NBA players of all time. The honor, bestowed by a panel of analysts, historians, and former players, marks yet another monumental achievement for the 26-year-old forward who continues to etch his name into NBA lore with every season.

From his early promise as the No. 3 overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft to his current status as the face of the Celtics franchise, Tatum’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. His inclusion on the all-time list not only reflects his prolific scoring ability and leadership on the court but also the respect he has earned from peers, coaches, and fans across the league.

An All-Time Recognition

The announcement came as part of an updated version of the NBA’s Top 100 list, curated by a mix of NBA insiders, media voices, and former players who considered longevity, peak performance, individual accolades, team success, and impact on the game. Tatum was ranked No. 94 on the list — already ahead of several retired greats — with many noting that he is far from finished climbing the ranks.

“Jayson Tatum has all the tools — scoring, defense, versatility, and leadership — and he’s only getting better,” said former NBA guard and ESPN analyst Jalen Rose. “To already be on this list at 26? That speaks volumes about where his career is headed.”

Tatum becomes the youngest Celtics player to ever appear on the list and joins franchise icons like Larry Bird, Bill Russell, Paul Pierce, and John Havlicek. It’s a rarefied club that only the most accomplished and influential players in NBA history can enter.

A Stellar Career on the Rise

Since entering the league, Tatum has averaged 23.1 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game across seven seasons. He’s a five-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA selection, and has led the Celtics to multiple deep playoff runs, including an NBA Finals appearance in 2022.

His 2023–24 campaign was arguably his most complete season yet, as he averaged over 27 points per game and guided Boston to the league’s best regular-season record. Though the Celtics fell short in the postseason, Tatum’s dominance and maturity were evident in every series.

“You look at what he’s done in such a short time — it’s historic,” said Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla. “He’s already passed so many greats in scoring, and he plays both ends of the floor. He’s an MVP-level player.”

Tatum’s style of play — a smooth blend of Kobe Bryant-inspired footwork and Kevin Durant-like shot-making — has made him one of the league’s most unguardable scorers. He’s a nightmare in isolation, dangerous from deep, and increasingly effective as a playmaker. His ability to guard multiple positions also makes him a defensive asset, a rarity for a player who logs such a heavy offensive load.

Off the Court: Humble and Hungry

While his basketball accolades pile up, Tatum remains grounded off the court. Known for his close relationship with his young son, Deuce, the Celtics star has cultivated a reputation for professionalism, humility, and community involvement. His charity efforts in St. Louis and Boston have earned praise from local organizations and the NBA alike.

When asked about his recent inclusion in the Top 100 list, Tatum responded with humility and perspective.

“It’s an honor, for sure,” he said. “But I still have so much to accomplish. Championships, MVPs, I want to keep pushing the legacy of the Celtics forward.”

That mindset is part of what makes Tatum so special. While many young stars chase stats or spotlight, Tatum has remained focused on team goals and long-term legacy. His work ethic — from offseason training to in-game adjustments — is consistently praised by teammates and coaching staff.

Comparing Legends

To understand the significance of Tatum’s inclusion, it helps to consider the company he now keeps. He joins names like Reggie Miller, Ray Allen, Vince Carter, Dominique Wilkins, and Allen Iverson — all of whom had longer careers when they earned their spots. For Tatum to be recognized this early speaks to the trajectory he’s on.

And yet, some analysts believe he may still be underrated.

“If Jayson Tatum wins a ring in the next few years, he could easily jump 30–40 spots on that list,” said Kendrick Perkins, former Celtic and current ESPN commentator. “He’s got everything you’d want in a superstar. It’s just a matter of time.”

Perkins, who’s been both critical and supportive of Tatum over the years, now sees him as a legitimate face of the NBA post-LeBron era.

Tatum’s Legacy in Boston

Boston, a city steeped in basketball tradition, doesn’t hand out love easily. But Tatum has won over the notoriously tough Celtics fanbase with his quiet leadership, consistent excellence, and clear respect for the franchise’s storied past.

“I grew up watching Paul Pierce and Kobe,” Tatum once said. “To wear this jersey and even be mentioned with those guys — that means everything.”

In many ways, Tatum is bridging generations for the Celtics. He represents the future while honoring the past, blending modern basketball with a team-first mentality that echoes the Celtics’ championship DNA.

With every playoff appearance, every 50-point game, and every buzzer-beating moment, he’s inching closer to the pantheon of all-time greats. His next step? Winning an NBA title — the ultimate validation.

What’s Next?

As the 2025 NBA season approaches, expectations are once again sky-high for Tatum and the Celtics. The roster is loaded, the Eastern Conference is competitive, and the pressure is mounting. But if the past few seasons are any indication, Tatum is ready for the challenge.

“I want to bring a banner back to Boston,” he said during media day. “That’s always the goal.”

And for a player already recognized as one of the best to ever lace them up, that’s not just talk — it’s destiny.

Jayson Tatum’s inclusion in the Top 100 NBA players of all time is not just a career milestone — it’s a glimpse into a legacy still being written. At just 26 years old, he’s already among the elite, and if his upward trajectory continues, there’s little doubt he’ll climb even higher.

Whether it’s through individual accolades, team championships, or cultural impact, Tatum is shaping up to be one of the defining players of his generation. And for Celtics fans, the best part may be that the journey is just beginning.

As Boston reloads for another title push and Tatum prepares for the spotlight once again, one thing is clear: the top 100 list was just a checkpoint. The real history is still ahead.