Tatum and Brown Reflect on Their Celtics Years After Trade

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown have spoken repeatedly about their relationship since Boston traded Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers on July 1. Their comments have mixed appreciation for what they achieved together with signs that the split has been difficult and, at times, tense.

Tatum’s first public message wished Brown well and looked back on their journey from early playoff exits to an NBA championship. In July interviews, he said he had love and respect for Brown, while acknowledging that public discussion had often framed the teammates as rivals. He also called the separation strange after nine seasons together and noted that the business side of basketball does not erase its human impact.

At his August introduction as a 76er, Brown said their championship made their shared history meaningful and that he had nothing but respect for Tatum. Asked whether they had spoken since the trade, he replied, “Not really.” In September, Tatum again celebrated their achievements, including five trips to the conference finals and two NBA Finals appearances.

The conversation took a sharper turn on October 22, when Tatum said he had learned of the trade from ESPN reporter Shams Charania during summer league. Brown responded to a video of Tatum discussing the deal with a blue-cap emoji, slang for calling something untrue. Tatum went on to praise Brown’s commitment, saying they had pushed each other and helped the Celtics win a championship.

After Boston opened its season with a 107-103 win over the Knicks on October 23, Tatum was asked about Brown’s online response. He said he had no animosity or ill will toward his former teammate and began describing what he found frustrating.