Congratulations, Jayson Tatum! NBA Star Welcomes Second Child with Heartwarming Message
Boston, MA — August 6, 2025
The TD Garden may be where he creates magic on the hardwood, but for Jayson Tatum, the most important moment of the year came far from the spotlight. The Boston Celtics superstar and NBA champion has officially welcomed his second child into the world — a daughter named Isla Grace Tatum — and the announcement has already captured the hearts of fans around the globe.
Tatum, 27, shared the news early this morning on his Instagram, posting a tender black-and-white photo of his newborn daughter resting peacefully on his chest. Alongside the photo was a handwritten message that quickly went viral:
> “You’ve already changed my world, Isla. Your big brother Deuce is ready to show you how to be fearless. I’ll protect you with everything I’ve got. Welcome home, baby girl. 💚”
The post, which received over 5 million likes in just three hours, featured a series of quiet, candid moments: a tiny Celtics onesie draped over the hospital crib, Deuce gently holding his baby sister’s hand, and a beaming Tatum in full dad mode.
According to sources close to the family, Isla was born at 8:24 AM, a detail that did not go unnoticed by Lakers fans and Kobe Bryant devotees — as 8 and 24 were the jersey numbers worn by Tatum’s idol. Tatum has spoken frequently about the impact Kobe had on his life both personally and professionally, and the timing was seen by fans as poetic.
Tatum’s partner, journalist and creative producer Ava Mitchell, gave birth at Massachusetts General Hospital with close family members in attendance. “We’re incredibly blessed,” she said in a brief statement. “She came into this world calm, bright-eyed, and surrounded by love.”
A Balanced Life Beyond Basketball
Though Tatum is widely regarded as one of the most polished and competitive players in the NBA — a two-time MVP finalist and reigning NBA champion — he’s also earned praise off the court for being a deeply involved father to his son, Jayson “Deuce” Tatum Jr.
Fans have watched Deuce grow up on the sidelines, becoming one of the most beloved “NBA kids” in the league. Now, Celtics Nation is bracing for another fan favorite in the making.
Teammates quickly flooded Tatum’s comments with support.
Jaylen Brown: “The dynasty continues! Congrats, bro 💚💚”
Al Horford: “Another Tatum to teach the game — and the game of life.”
Marcus Smart, now with the Grizzlies, wrote simply: “Uncle Smart ready.”
Even Commissioner Adam Silver released a congratulatory note through the NBA’s official channels, writing: “Jayson continues to embody everything the league values — excellence, character, and family.”
What’s Next for Tatum?
With training camp around the corner and Boston entering the season as the defending champions, Tatum is expected to return to the court soon. But insiders say the Celtics have granted him a few extra days to spend time with his growing family.
As for Deuce? According to sources, he’s “already planning to teach Isla how to dribble.”
Welcome to the world, Isla Grace Tatum. The NBA just got a little brighter. 🌟
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