Boston Celtics’ star Jayson Tatum has stepped beyond the basketball court to showcase a new talent of writing. Tatum just launched his first children’s book, Baby Dunks-a-Lot, at Barnes & Noble, marking his entry into the world of children's literature. This project, which has been in development for the past two years, holds a personal significance for Tatum, as it was inspired by his young son, Deuce.
The book tells the heartwarming tale of a baby who surprises his older brother with an impressive dunk, but its message extends beyond a simple storyline. Boston Celtics’ star aims to celebrate and promote representation, particularly for Black and Brown children who are often underrepresented in mainstream literature. He emphasizes the importance of showcasing diverse protagonists, as well as the special bond between a mother and her child, a theme drawn from his personal life.
Here is the video of the book launch event:
“Representation was super important when creating this book," Tatum shared. "I wanted to show Black and Brown children that it is possible to be the heroes in books. And the relationship I have with my mom—she didn’t play basketball, but she always supported me, took me to every practice, and made sure I stayed on top of my game.”
Why is Baby Dunks-a-Lot so emotional for Jayson Tatum?
Jayson Tatum's connection to family is a central theme in Baby Dunks-a-Lot. The book’s illustrations, created by Parker-Nia Gordon, reflect this message of inclusivity, with the protagonist’s family depicted as Brown. In a touching homage to his mother, Brandy Cole, one scene shows a woman tossing the ball to the baby for a dunk—a nod to the support and sacrifice Cole made throughout Tatum’s life.
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Brandy Cole’s influence has shaped Tatum’s career and character, and he continues to honour her role in his life. As a single mother who pursued her education while raising Tatum, Cole instilled a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility in him.
Despite his success in the NBA, Tatum maintains a close bond with his mother, who still manages his finances and helps secure his long-term financial stability. The relationship Tatum shares with both his mother and son, Deuce, is a testament to the family bonds that drive him, both on and off the court.
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