Celtics Legend Paul Pierce Embraces Tatum and Brown as Next Generation

Pierce continues to support Boston's young stars and keep the Celtics' winning culture alive.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 10:41pm

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Boston Celtics legend Paul Pierce has embraced the team's young stars Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown, supporting them at every turn and helping them adjust to the city of Boston. Despite their initial hesitation to embrace the city, Pierce has bridged the gap, rooting for them from afar and getting to know them up close whenever he visits New England or when the Celtics travel to Los Angeles. Pierce sees it as his duty to keep the legacy of Celtics culture alive by supporting the next generation of Green Teamers.

Why it matters

As one of the most iconic Celtics players of the modern era, Pierce's support and mentorship of Tatum and Brown is crucial in maintaining the team's winning tradition and helping the young stars feel at home in Boston. His advocacy for them in the media and presence at games shows his commitment to the franchise and its future.

The details

Pierce, who grew up a Lakers fan in Los Angeles, didn't hesitate to call Boston his home when he returned to TD Garden for a fan event. He emphasized how much it means to give back to the fans who supported him throughout his career. Similarly, Tatum and Brown, who also had initial reservations about embracing Boston, have been welcomed by Pierce. The Celtics legend makes an effort to check in on them, attend their workouts when they're in LA, and defend them in the media whenever they face criticism.

  • On March 22, 2026, Pierce spoke about his connection to Boston and the Celtics after a fan event at TD Garden.
  • In October 2025, Pierce was spotted at a Celtics game wearing gear from Jaylen Brown's clothing line, showing his support for the young star.

The players

Paul Pierce

A Boston Celtics legend who played for the team from 1998 to 2013, winning an NBA championship in 2008. He is known for his strong connection to the city of Boston and his efforts to support the next generation of Celtics stars.

Jayson Tatum

A rising superstar for the Boston Celtics, drafted by the team in 2017. He has become one of the NBA's best players and a key part of the Celtics' future.

Jaylen Brown

Another young star for the Boston Celtics, drafted by the team in 2016. He has developed into an All-Star caliber player and a key part of the Celtics' core alongside Tatum.

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What they’re saying

“This is home, so to be able to give back to the fans every time I come out, it means a lot for what they've been able to do to support me in my career. Times like this you remember what you left in this building, for the city. And so I enjoy it every time.”

— Paul Pierce

“I've been happy for them since day one. I always come around and just whenever they're in Los Angeles, I try to go check out their workout...This is just a brotherhood, no matter what the age gap is.”

— Paul Pierce

“I'm always pulling for them in the media when I see things that I don't feel are right because I feel like Boston players don't get their just due for the most part. Brown not being in the Olympics, Tatum not getting the minutes — I'm always advocating and pushing for them and fighting for them.”

— Paul Pierce

What’s next

Pierce is expected to continue supporting Tatum and Brown as they lead the Celtics into the future, with the team looking to contend for an NBA championship.

The takeaway

Paul Pierce's embrace of Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown as the next generation of Celtics stars shows his commitment to maintaining the team's winning culture and legacy. His mentorship and advocacy for the young players is crucial in helping them feel at home in Boston and reach their full potential.