Celtics' Tatum Impresses Cousin Lue With Comeback From Achilles Injury

LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue, who is related to Jayson Tatum, praises the Celtics star's determination to return to the court.

Mar. 11, 2026 at 2:22am

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Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has made a remarkable comeback from a torn Achilles tendon, impressing his cousin, LA Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue. Tatum returned to action just 10 months after the injury and has played well in his first two games back. Lue, who considers Tatum his 'little cousin', spoke about how impressed he is with Tatum's determination to get back on the court and help the Celtics, who are second in the Eastern Conference standings.

Why it matters

Tatum's quick recovery and return to form is significant for the Celtics, who are contending for an NBA championship this season. Lue's praise of Tatum's dedication and resilience highlights the player's character and leadership, which are crucial for a team with title aspirations.

The details

Tatum suffered a torn Achilles tendon in his right foot 10 months ago, but has returned to action and played well in his first two games back. In his return against the Dallas Mavericks, Tatum recorded 15 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists in 27 minutes. He followed that up with a 20-point performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Lue, who is from the same hometown as Tatum and considers him a cousin, spoke about how impressed he is with Tatum's determination to get back on the court and help the Celtics win.

  • Tatum suffered the Achilles injury 10 months ago.
  • Tatum returned to action on March 10, 2026.
  • Tatum's first game back was against the Dallas Mavericks on March 10, 2026.
  • Tatum's second game back was against the Cleveland Cavaliers on March 12, 2026.

The players

Jayson Tatum

A six-time NBA All-Star and star player for the Boston Celtics who recently returned from a torn Achilles tendon injury.

Tyronn Lue

The head coach of the LA Clippers who is from the same hometown as Jayson Tatum and considers him a cousin.

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What they’re saying

“I talked to him the night before [his return against the Mavs] and he was very excited. Very excited to get back out on the floor because he loves the game. Just happy for him. A hard recovery, 10 months of rehab, doing all the things it takes to get back and he very easily could've just folded and just waited until next year, but he wanted to be on the floor, he wanted to help his team win.”

— Tyronn Lue, LA Clippers Head Coach

“He's my little cousin. His dad, Justin Tatum, is best friends with Larry Hughes and they come down all the time and they come down all time. They're a part of my extended family, Justin is, so they come all the time and seeing little Jay when he was six or seven years old to who he is today, it's crazy. Seeing the player he's become, you knew he was going to be good, but now he's on a whole new level.”

— Tyronn Lue, LA Clippers Head Coach

What’s next

The Celtics and Clippers have already played their two games against each other this season, so Tatum and Lue will not be able to see each other again until next season.

The takeaway

Jayson Tatum's remarkable comeback from a serious Achilles injury showcases his dedication and resilience, which have impressed his cousin Tyronn Lue. Tatum's return has bolstered the Celtics' championship aspirations, demonstrating the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.