Childhood memories can have a lasting impact, especially when they involve meeting your favorite sports player. For Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum, one such memory involves a not-so-pleasant encounter with then-Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James when he was just 11 years old.
Tatum's father was close friends with Larry Hughes, who played with James in Cleveland. During a regular-season game between the Cavaliers and the Memphis Grizzlies, young Jayson eagerly waited to meet his idol, LeBron James, for an autograph and a picture. However, when James was surrounded by a crowd of fans, he had to leave quickly, leaving a disappointed Tatum in tears.
Years later, the incident seems to be water under the bridge for Tatum. During a Team USA shootaround, James brought up the encounter, connecting it to Tatum's memorable dunk over him during the 2018 Eastern Conference finals. Tatum jokingly referred to the dunk as his way of getting back at James for the childhood disappointment.
At a recent Team USA training camp, James noticed Tatum's haircut, which was the same style he had when he dunked over the NBA superstar. The playful banter between the two players highlights the camaraderie and competitive spirit in the world of basketball.
Team USA basketball is gearing up to face Serbia in the USA Basketball Showcase, showcasing the talent and skill of top players like Tatum and James. The friendly rivalry between the two players adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming game, as fans eagerly anticipate the on-court action.
