Author: atrang

The truth behind Jayson Tatum’s tattoos – the bold message on his back leaves fans stunned!

BOSTON Celtics star Jayson Tatum has an impressive collection of ink.

Among the artworks adorning the 25-year-old NBA All-Star’s body are tattoos commemorating his mom, his son, and his journey to the league.

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Tatum is a four-time NBA All-StarCredit: Getty Images – Getty

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He has “Gods will” tattooed across his shoulders along with a cherub and a collage of images in reference to his childhoodCredit: YouTube/Steve Wiebe
And it all began thanks to his dad.

“I always wanted to be like my dad so I always wanted to get tattoos,” he told NBC Sports in 2019.

A former college basketball player himself at St. Louis University, Justin Tatum too had his fair share of ink, which seemingly inspired a young Jayson.

But the former third-overall pick took his time, waiting until just before his rookie season in 2017 to tattoo his wrists.

He admitted that these “hurt so bad,” saying “I was like I’m never doing it again.

“But then I had a son so that was my next tattoo. I wanted something to compliment this leg. Then I got a picture of my mom.”

Over the years, Tatum has regularly added to his collection.

A devout Christian, he has “Gods Will” and “Proverbs 3:5-6” across his shoulders.

Elsewhere, other additions include his high school and college jerseys draped over one another on his left leg, as well as two Black Mamba snakes in the shape of the number 24 just above them, in honor of the late Kobe Bryant.

In 2022 Steve Wiebe, who has done much of Tatum’s ink, added a large collage of images commemorating his childhood home in St. Louis on the left-hand side of his back.

And St. Louis is clearly still a placer he holds dear, as he also has a tattoo of a mushroom cloud along with the quote “St. Louis – ’til the world blows” on his right leg.

Right across from this, on Tatum’s right leg, is a portrait of him holding his son, Jayson Jr., and the caption “like father, like son.”

As if these weren’t enough, he also has the number “98” on his right knee – the year of his birth, and “Big Deuce” on his hand – in reference to his son who is nicknamed ‘Deuce.’

But while Tatum has continued to add to his portfolio of ink over the years, he admitted that “They hurt though, every time, they hurt.”

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Tatum has been steadily adding to his collection throughout his pro careerCredit: Instagram/jaytatum0

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He was a star for Duke for just one season before heading for the NBACredit: Twitter/@DavidMGreen

Fan Courtside Stuns Everyone with Bold Move Aimed at Celtics Star

Jayson Tatum is certainly turning heads, both on and off the court. During a recent Celtics game against the Golden State Warriors at TD Garden, the cameras picked up a courtside fan who seemed particularly enchanted by Tatum as he engaged in a spirited discussion with a referee. Her reaction, a combination of awe and amusement, was a testament to Tatum’s star power—both his skill and his charisma captivating those around.

On the court, Tatum was dazzling as ever, racking up 32 points on 10-of-20 shooting, including five shots from downtown, and sinking 7 out of 9 free throws. He rounded out his night with four rebounds, two assists, a block, and a steal over 37 minutes.

Despite the Celtics’ 118-112 loss to the Warriors, this marked Tatum’s fifth 30-point game of the season and his third in just the last five games. His proficiency beyond the arc is noteworthy too, with 11 successful three-pointers out of 24 attempts in the last two games alone.

However intriguing his appeal might be to fans, Tatum’s personal life is well-settled. He is in a relationship with singer Ella Mai, and the couple shares a child, further highlighting that some admirers might just have to settle for appreciating his talents from afar.

 

 

Now, let’s talk about how Tatum’s form this season is drawing eyes for another reason entirely: MVP-caliber performances. After a summer where his minutes were limited during Team USA’s gold-medal Olympic journey in Paris, some might have questioned whether that time would impact Tatum’s readiness for the NBA season.

If anything, it seems to have fueled his fire. Averaging 30.2 points, seven rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, Tatum’s play is commanding respect across the league.

Interestingly enough, legendary coach Steve Kerr felt the TD Garden fans’ displeasure due to his past decisions in managing Tatum’s minutes with Team USA. Yet, with Tatum displaying such an elite level of basketball currently, perhaps those boos ought to be transformed into cheers for helping catalyze what has become an MVP-worthy trajectory.

Besides, Tatum’s journey and ambitions are fueled by stories and dreams of leading a major market team. Although once envisioning himself donning Lakers purple and gold, the Celtics star is currently living out a dream in Boston, underscoring that destiny had another championship narrative in mind for him. Keep an eye on Tatum; the season is still young, and there’s a lot more script still to be written.

Jayson Tatum’s girlfriend Ella Mai marks 30th birthday with surprise announcement

 

Jayson Tatum’s girlfriend, Ella Mai, made a surprise announcement on Instagram as she celebrated her 30th birthday. The singer, who shares a baby boy with the Boston Celtics superstar, hadn’t released any music for over a year. On Monday, however, she broke that trend.

The British artist shared this message to delight her fans on her special day:

“AVAILABLE NOW EVERYWHERE! my 30th birthday gift to you all ♏️ 3 songs. november 3rd. one of my favourite numbers. i’ve missed you all, three times over ❤️.”

Her new extended play (EP) titled “3” features three songs that run for just over 10 minutes, namely “Hearts On Deck,” “One of These” and “Little Things.” The release is her latest EP since “Ready,” which came out in 2017. Fans expressed excitement over how the collection could do, especially after her “Heart On My Sleeve” did well in the US Billboard 200 last year.

Jayson Tatum’s girlfriend is a Grammy Award-winning singer whose song “Boo’d Up” was named the Best R&B Song in 2019. Her “Ella Mai” album was nominated for the Best R&B Album the following year but lost to Anderson .Paak’s “Ventura.”

Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai showed their baby to the world after the 2024 Paris Olympics

Ella Mai and Jayson Tatum’s family traveled to Paris to cheer the basketball star and Team USA on in their pursuit of gold. Mai, who was pregnant when the Boston Celtics won the championship in June, brought along their little boy, who is reportedly named Jayson.

After the Americans grabbed the gold medal by beating host France in the championship game, Tatum posed for photos behind the scenes with the R&B singer, his mother, grandmother and son Deuce, whom he shares with his former girlfriend Toriah Lachell.

Tatum and the UK-born artist kept her pregnancy under wraps until the 2024 NBA Finals. When she appeared at Boston Garden, her baby bump was already noticeable. The little boy was only introduced after Team USA’s gold-medal-winning campaign in Paris in August.

 

 

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Spend Double Date with Patrick and Brittany Mahomes in New Orleans Ahead of 2025 Super Bowl

The couples dined at the French restaurant Lilette on Feb. 7

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce spend a date night with Patrick Mahomes and Brittany Mahomes in New Orleans on Feb. 7. Photo: TheImageDirect.com

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are taking in all that New Orleans has to offer with Patrick Mahomes and Brittany Mahomes.

The singer and her NFL star boyfriend, both 35, spent a double date night with Patrick and Brittany, both 29, at the French restaurant Lilette in New Orleans on Friday, Feb. 7.

For the evening out, Swift wore a chic black lace mini-dress that she paired with black shoes and her signature red lip. Kelce, for his part, held the “Cruel Summer” musician’s hand while wearing a gray tracksuit with a white T-shirt underneath and sneakers.

Patrick, meanwhile, wore a loose-fitting black jacket and pants with a white graphic T-shirt, as Brittany — who recently gave birth to the couple’s third baby — stepped out in a large red coat, which she paired with a matching purse and boots.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in New Orleans on Feb. 7.TheImageDirect.com

Swift and Kelce’s date night with Patrick and Brittany took place days ahead of the 2025 Super Bowl, where the Kansas City Chiefs will face off against the Philadelphia Eagles at the Caesars Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 9.

Kelce’s older brother, Jason Kelce, and his wife, Kylie Kelce, are also in New Orleans to show their support. (The brothers previously went head-to-head in 2023 when the Eagles and Chiefs last met at the Super Bowl.)

Swift recently celebrated a big night of her own at the 2025 Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 2, when she was nominated for six awards.

The star has garnered 14 wins and 58 nominations over the course of her career, and she is the only artist to ever win album of the year four times. (This year’s honor went to Beyoncé for her Cowboy Carter LP.)

Patrick Mahomes and Brittany Mahomes in New Orleans on Feb. 7.TheImageDirect.com

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Will Be Able to ‘Connect More’ After the Super Bowl, Says His Dad Ed Kelce

Swift and Kelce have been known to spend double date nights with their celebrity friends in recent months.

Back in December 2024, the pair dined at BondST Restaurant in New York City with Jack Antonoff and Margaret Qualley.

Months earlier, Swift and Kelce joined Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds for a double date at The Corner Store in New York’s Soho neighborhood on Oct. 11.

The couple — who began dating in 2023 — have taken part in plenty of solo dates recently as well.

Patrick Mahomes has been in love WITH HIS WIFE SINCE THEIR HIGH SCHOOL YEARS.🥹 The couple recently welcomed their third child, and his family will be supporting him at Super Bowl 2025.😍 “Such a beautiful couple,” a user comments.

Kansas City Chiefs star quarterback Patrick Mahomes is not only making headlines for his incredible football skills but also for the love story that has been unfolding since his high school years. The star athlete has been in a committed relationship with his wife, Brittany Mahomes, for years, and their journey together has been a heartwarming tale of love, loyalty, and shared dreams. Now, as they prepare for Super Bowl 2025, the couple’s bond is stronger than ever, and their growing family will be there to support Patrick as he aims to lead the Chiefs to victory once again.

A High School Romance

Patrick Mahomes and Brittany Matthews, now Brittany Mahomes, first met in high school in Tyler, Texas. Both were athletes—Patrick, of course, as a football star, and Brittany as a soccer player. The two shared a connection early on that would continue to grow as they moved on to their college years and beyond.

Their high school romance was the foundation for the incredible relationship they share today. While Patrick’s football career began to take off, Brittany was always there to support him, attending games and cheering him on. Their connection grew stronger as they navigated the ups and downs of life, including Patrick’s rise to NFL stardom with the Chiefs. Despite the pressures and demands of their respective careers, they always made time for each other, proving that their love was built to last.

Welcoming Their Third Child

The Mahomes family recently welcomed their third child, a beautiful addition that has only deepened their bond. The couple has two children, a daughter named Sterling, and a son named Bronze, and the arrival of their newest little one has brought even more joy into their lives.

As a family, they’ve become an inspiration to many. Brittany, who has also pursued a career in fitness and business, has supported Patrick through every step of his career, and their children have become a focal point of their lives off the field. With their third child now part of the picture, their family has become a true team, with each member playing an essential role in the love and support that keeps Patrick going on and off the field.

Family Support at Super Bowl 2025

As Super Bowl 2025 draws closer, Patrick Mahomes will undoubtedly feel the love and support from his entire family. The couple’s unwavering commitment to each other, along with their shared dedication to their family, will undoubtedly be a source of motivation for Patrick as he takes the field in the biggest game of the year. His wife and children will be there, cheering him on every step of the way, just as they always have.

Brittany, as always, has been vocal about her pride in her husband’s accomplishments. She’s regularly spotted at games, supporting Patrick in the stands and sharing her excitement and admiration on social media. Their love story is an example of a couple growing together, not just in their personal lives but also in supporting each other through their professional endeavors.

A Beautiful Couple: A Supportive Family and Relationship

It’s no wonder that fans and social media users often comment on how beautiful the couple is, both inside and out. Their love for each other is evident in every moment they share, whether it’s celebrating milestones or simply spending quality time together as a family.

As a quarterback, Patrick Mahomes has an exceptional talent for leading his team on the field, but his ability to balance his family life with his professional career is equally impressive. Brittany’s support has played a major role in his success, and together, they’ve created a dynamic family unit that serves as a beacon of love and strength for many.

With Super Bowl 2025 on the horizon, Patrick Mahomes will step onto the field with not only his team but his family by his side. As he looks to add to his legacy and potentially bring home another championship, it’s clear that the Mahomes family’s support will be one of his greatest sources of strength.

Conclusion: A Love That Endures Through Every Challenge

Patrick Mahomes and Brittany Mahomes are a true testament to the power of love, commitment, and mutual support. From their high school days to their growing family and the spotlight of the NFL, their journey together is an inspiration. As they approach Super Bowl 2025, their story is one of perseverance, love, and success—not just as individuals but as a family.

The Mahomes family will be there, cheering Patrick on as he faces the biggest challenge of his football career, just as they’ve always been there to support him. Whether on the field or in life, the love between Patrick and Brittany will continue to be a driving force behind their success, and fans everywhere are excited to see where this beautiful journey takes them next.

Ryan Reynolds breaks silence after skipping Critics Choice Awards despite WINNING as he and wife Blake Lively step back from public life amid Justin Baldoni scandal

Ryan Reynolds has broken his silence after he was a no-show during Friday night’s Critics Choice Awards.

During Friday’s ceremony in LA, it was revealed that Reynolds’ summer blockbuster Deadpool And Wolverine tied with A Real Pain for Best Comedy film.

After skipping the glitzy event, Reynolds, 48, took to Instagram just hours later to acknowledge Deadpool & Wolverine’s victory.

Posting on Instagram, the actor wrote: ‘Zoing! Thanks @criticschoice – whole team @deadpoolmovie is thrilled,’ while also congratulating fellow winner A Real Pain.

Reynolds wrote, produced and co-starred with BFF Hugh Jackman in the Shawn Levy-directed superhero flick that hit theaters the same weekend as Lively and Baldoni’s drama-plagued film It Ends With Us.

The R-rated Marvel film recently caught the ire of Baldoni, who suspects the character Nicepool — written and played by Reynolds — is a cruel parody of him.

Ryan Reynolds has broken his silence after he was a no-show during Friday night’s Critics Choice Awards (pictured with his wife Blake Lively in August 2024)

Ryan, 48, has chosen to stay out of the spotlight as his wife Blake Lively continues her legal fight with It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni (pictured)

His absence from the ceremony comes as he has stepped back from the spotlight as his wife Blake Lively continues her legal fight with It Ends With Us co-star Justin Baldoni.

However, he did attend the JP Morgan summit on Friday alongside Disney boss Bob Iger and agent Bryan Lourd, sharing snaps from the event.

Reynolds’ absence from the Critics Choice Awards comes shortly after DailyMail.com revealed that Lively will not be attending Super Bowl LIX with pal Taylor Swift.

The Hollywood couple have virtually vanished from the spotlight amid the highly-publicized legal war that kicked off in late December.

During the Critics Choice Awards, host Chelsea Handler wasted no time referencing the high-profile feud.

She joked: ‘Thank you, Justin Baldoni and Blake Lively, for providing us with that distraction… I think we can all agree there won’t be a sequel. It ends with us, guys.’

The It Ends With Us scandal began when Lively publicly accused Baldoni of sexual harassment on set of It Ends With Us.

Baldoni has repeatedly denied Lively’s allegations. After suing the New York Times, Baldoni filed a $400 million lawsuit against her, Reynolds and Lively’s publicist Leslie Sloane over claims of extortion and defamation.

Despite skipping the glitzy event, Ryan still acknowledged Deadpool & Wolverine’s win for Best Comedy

Posting on Instagram, the actor wrote: ‘Zoing! Thanks @criticschoice – whole team @deadpoolmovie is thrilled,’ while also congratulating A Real Pain, which shared the award

Despite the ongoing drama with his wife’s legal fight, the actor has been juggling multiple projects, including attending the JP Morgan summit

Baldoni, who recently amended his complaint and launched a website telling ‘his side,’ says the trio concocted ‘false accusations of sexual harassment’ against him.

A source recently told TMZ that the Baldoni legal battle has taken ‘a deep emotional toll’ on Reynolds and Lively.

The couple have experienced ‘severe anguish’ amid the drama surrounding the production, promotion and release of the motion picture, the insider said, and she is striving ‘to get this all buttoned up.’

Lively, who played Lily Bloom opposite Baldoni’s Ryle Kincaid in the romantic drama, was ‘grateful’ for how a Monday hearing in New York City went, sources told the outlet.

Lively – who is mother to four kids with Reynolds – felt that Judge Lewis J. Liman ‘ruled in her favor’ by issuing a warning to Baldoni lawyer Bryan Freedman over statements made to the media that could impact the jury selection process over multiple cases.

In the hearing, the federal judge admonished attorneys on both sides to cease speaking publicly on the case out of fears it could impact potential jury selection, and said he could move up the slated March 9, 2026 trial date if they were unable to do so.

Sources close to Lively said the actress was ‘more than ready for her day in court’ and prepared to show the court and public the validity of sexual harassment and retaliation claims she made against Baldoni.

During Friday’s ceremony in LA, it was revealed that Reynolds’ summer blockbuster ‘Deadpool And Wolverine’ tied with ‘A Real Pain’ for Best Comedy film

The R-rated Marvel film recently caught the ire of Baldoni, who believes the character Nicepool — which was written and played by Reynolds — is a cruel parody of him

Lively’s attorneys Michael Gottlieb and Esra Hudson told Dailymail.com in a statement on Monday following court proceedings, ‘We are pleased with the result of today’s hearing and eager to move forward immediately with discovery in this case.

‘The Court granted our request that all attorneys in the matter actually follow the rule of law and not make any statements that could prejudice a jury. This case deals with serious allegations of sexual harassment and retaliation.’

Gottlieb and Hudson told Dailymail.com they intended to ‘hold the defendants accountable’ and ‘are confident that once all the evidence is submitted in this matter, Ms. Lively will prevail.’

Sources close to Justin Baldoni’s team had a clearly different interpretation of Monday’s hearings in remarks made to Dailymail.com.

‘The judge did not rule in Ms. Lively’s favor, what they had asked of the court was a gag order, for Blake not to be deposed by Bryan and for the entire case to be dismissed against them – none of that happened,’ insiders close to Baldoni said. ‘Therefore the court did not rule in her favor.’

They added, ‘Private individuals have suffered hugely due to celebrity Ms. Lively’s vastly untrue claims and they too, are looking forward to their day in court to show the truth.’

Lively feels Baldoni’s efforts – which include the publication of a website showcasing court filings containing text messages and other media related to the production of the movie – amount to a ‘counter claim sideshow,’ sources told TMZ Tuesday.

Baldoni’s team previously said that the communications shared in court filings on the website – which already has fans talking – makes things clear about the actions of both parties, marking the latest chapter in the feud between the lead stars of romantic drama.

Reynolds and wife Lively have virtually vanished from the spotlight amid the highly-publicized scandal that began when Lively publicly accused Baldoni of sexual harassment on set of ‘It Ends With Us’; Baldoni and Lively seen in January 2024

Baldoni has repeatedly denied Lively’s allegations. After suing the New York Times, Baldoni filed a $400 million lawsuit against her, Reynolds and Lively’s publicist Leslie Sloane over claims of extortion and defamation; Baldoni seen in December 2024

The website, which is live online at thelawsuitinfo.com, comes amid a spate of high-profile litigation between the collaborators on the film, which was a hit at the box office last August.

The site that contained that revelation and others went live days prior to the first hearing Monday, which was previously pushed up from an initial date of February 12, ahead of a trial with a starting date of March 9, 2026, in the case.

Lawyers for both parties were in accordance with a plan to compound both federal cases filed into one moving forward.

Lively in December sued Baldoni amid claims of sexual harassment during production of the motion picture, which was a hit when it arrived in theaters in August.

In Lively’s lawsuit against Baldoni, the Gossip Girl alum accused Baldoni of sexually harassing her in multiple ways – including body shaming her – and orchestrating a smear campaign against her to damage her reputation.

Baldoni has denied all of the claims against him in Lively’s legal filing. He and his reps have said in response to the lawsuit that Lively twisted the meaning of text messages and mislead the public about their interactions while making the motion picture.

Lively filed an 80-page civil rights complaint with the California Civil Rights Department against Baldoni December 20, before officially filing a federal lawsuit on December 31.

In her lawsuit, Lively named a number of Baldoni’s collaborators, including his company Wayfarer Studios, the studio’s CEO and financial backer, and PR personnel Melissa Nathan and Jennifer Abel.

‘I hope that my legal action helps pull back the curtain on these sinister retaliatory tactics to harm people who speak up about misconduct and helps protect others who may be targeted,’ Lively told The New York Times the day after she filed the complaint.

A source recently told TMZ that the Baldoni legal battle has taken ‘a deep emotional toll’ on Reynolds and Lively; the couple seen in July 2024

Baldoni subsequently sued the newspaper for $250million in a defamation claim over a December 21 story titled ”We Can Bury Anyone’: Inside a Hollywood Smear Machine;’ the newspaper has denied the allegations.

Baldoni on January 16 filed a $400 million lawsuit against Lively, Reynolds and her publicist Leslie Sloane, alleging defamation and extortion. Baldoni told the court the trio had concocted ‘false accusations of sexual harassment’ against him.

Since Lively’s complaint was filed, Baldoni has faced a number of professional consequences, including a lawsuit from a former publicist; and being dropped by the agency WME, which also reps Lively and Reynolds.

WME has denied claims that Lively and Reynolds leaned on them to release Baldoni from their client roster, according to Variety.

It Ends with Us, which also starred Jenny Slate, Hasan Minhaj, Brandon Sklenar and Kevin McKidd, arrived in theaters August 9 and was a hit with audiences. The film, adapted from the 2016 Colleen Hoover novel, earned $148 million in domestic box office, and $350 million globally, according to Box Office Mojo.

Lively broke out with the 2005 movie The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants opposite Amber Tamblyn, Alexis Bledel and America Ferrera.

That led to her high-profile role on the TV show Gossip Girl, which she starred on from 2007-2012, playing lead character Serena van der Woodsen.

She has also appeared in movies such as 2010’s The Town, 2016’s The Shallows, 2018’s A Simple Favor and 2020’s The Rhythm Section.

Prior to It Ends with Us, Baldoni was best known for playing the role of Rafael Solano on the TV show Jane the Virgin from 2014–2019.

He also has directed films including 2019’s Five Feet Apart and 2020’s Clouds, and penned the 2021 book Man Enough, which tackled misconceptions of contemporary masculinity.

Crushed in finals rematch, but celtics are still ‘monsters’ when needed – as long as they stay fit!

For whatever frustrations there have been with the Celtics this year, they’ve mostly remained intact.

Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 25 points in the loss to the Mavericks. Erin Clark/Globe Staff
A long 3-pointer’s worth of thoughts on your defending NBA champions …

 

A couple of developments that will have to go the Celtics way if they are to successfully defend that championship are obvious enough that we probably could categorize them in the Goes Without Saying file.

 

The first – again, obviously – is health. Injuries are not an excuse why a team doesn’t fulfill its biggest goals, but a reason. Kristaps Porzingis is the most injury-prone of the Celtics – I think we all cringe in unison whenever he lands awkwardly, let alone falls – but he has looked fantastic lately on both ends of the court.

I’ll admit it if you will: I wasn’t sure we’d see him at this level again after his unusual foot/ankle injury in the playoffs last year.

 

For whatever frustrations there have been with the Celtics this year, they’ve mostly remained intact. The importance of that is obvious, yes, but worth a reiteration because of how crucial it is.

 

They also need to shoot the ball better from long distance, particularly Jaylen Brown (32.7 percent from 3-point territory, below his career average of 36.0 percent) and Jrue Holiday (34.2 percent, below his 36.9 career average, and well below his 42.9 percent last year).

Ex-Mass. lawmaker sentenced for scamming pandemic unemployment fundsEx-Mass. lawmaker sentenced for scamming pandemic unemployment funds

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I do wonder whether Brown, who might be in the best shape of anyone on this planet and a few others, might have bulked up a little too much. Sure do trust him with those 14-footers in the paint when the game gets tight, though.

 

Holiday is a more interesting case. He was better than he has ever been last season from 3-point land, and maybe his struggles this season are just a correction. But even if his shooting inconsistency continues, I’m convinced he’s going to level up his overall play, especially on defense, come the playoffs.

 

Why? Because I believe he’s pulling a DJ on us.

 

Celtics fans who were fortunate to experience the team in the ‘80s know exactly what I mean. During the long regular season, Dennis Johnson would seem only vaguely interested during, say, a Friday night game in Sacramento that wrapped up a long road trip, and so he might shoot 1 of 3 from the field and be a total non-factor offensively.

 

But when the Celtics needed him, come a big regular season game in Philly or Detroit or the biggest games in May and June, he was always at his best, as Larry Bird would be the first to attest.

Dennis Johnson (left) knew when it was go time, like in the waning seconds of Game 5 of the 1987 Eastern Conference Finals against the Pistons. – Globe staff Joanne Rathe
Holiday – after being Mr. Reliable for the Celtics in the postseason last year, and after helping the US win the men’s basketball gold at the Olympics – has had an uneven season at age 34.

 

But after watching him torment the Sixers’ Tyrese Maxey – who is on the short list of the quickest guards in the league – in the final minutes of the Celtics’ win over the Sixers last Sunday, I’m convinced he’ll be the Jrue the Glue again when the stakes are highest and the Celtics need him the most.

 

The Celtics must stay healthy. Some of them need to shoot better. And yes, go ahead and add to that that their overall effort and attentiveness must become more consistent after watching them get clocked at TD Garden by the Mavericks Thursday night. Those will be decisive postseason variables for the team that emerges with the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy, whether it’s the Celtics or one of their pursuers.

 

But I’m not worried about Holiday’s effort specifically. He knows how to tap into his intensity when necessary, just as DJ did for the Celtics championship teams so many of us treasure the most.

 

For whatever occasional and mostly minor frustrations Celtics fans have with Tatum and Brown, their preparation, dependability, and habitual professionalism must be lauded. A reminder of that probably wasn’t necessary, but we got one this week anyway with the Mavericks’ staggering trade of Luka Doncic to the Lakers. The Celtics exploited his lack of conditioning and defensive effort in the Finals, and it did not inspire him to work harder, which seems to be one reason he’s now an ex-Maverick. (The main reason: general manager Nico Harrison shouldn’t be trusted to operate a vending machine, let alone an NBA franchise.) Anyway, go ahead and add the Doncic-era Mavericks to the growing list of teams the Celtics have broken in recent years.

The Mavericks traded away the face of their franchise guard Luka Doncic to the Lakers. – Barry Chin/Globe Staff

I’m not sure I’ve ever liked a Celtic that averaged less than 2 points per game more than I did Jaden Springer. (For the record, garbage-time Hall of Famer Terry Duerod averaged 2.8 points per game from 1980-82.) Sure, his offensive game was . . . let’s call it unpolished. But his relentlessness on defense offered shades of Marcus Smart and Avery Bradley, and he played a significant role in at least one Celtics win this year, when he locked down Kevin Porter Jr. in the fourth quarter of a win over the Clippers last month.

I thought he’d be an ideal fit for Ime Udoka’s Rockets, but they waived him Thursday afternoon. It’s too bad that teams cannot bring back a player they recently traded after he is waived – Gary Payton and Danny Ainge ruined that scheme for everyone in 2005, when Payton was sent to the Hawks for Antoine Walker, cut, and re-signed with the Celtics a week later.

“Tom Brady Shocks Fans By Saying He’d Be ‘Very Happy’ If Chiefs Win Super Bowl – Reason Will Surprise Fans!”

“What they’ve achieved is unmatched. And I think that’s cool because people always hated on us for so many years.”

Tom Brady and Patrick Mahomes have already received plenty of comparisons ahead of Super Bowl LIX. (photo by Matthew J. Lee/Globe staff)

 

Tom Brady will be on the call for Fox on Sunday when Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs try to win their fourth Super Bowl in five years.

Another Chiefs triumph over the Eagles in Super Bowl LIX would still put Mahomes three titles behind Brady’s legendary resume.

But chatter over comparisons between the two quarterbacks and Mahomes’ ability to supplant Brady as the greatest to ever do it will only grow louder if Mahomes becomes the first QB in NFL history to complete a three-peat on Sunday.

As such, it’s only natural to expect that Brady isn’t rooting for another Mahomes victory, given the potential challenge to his own legacy.

David Andrews and Brian Hoyer talk about why Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs still aren’t on Tom Brady and the Patriots’ level yetDavid Andrews and Brian Hoyer talk about why Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs still aren’t on Tom Brady and the Patriots’ level yet

But speaking on the “Let’s Go!” podcast with Jim Gray on Monday, Brady opted to remain impartial when it came to rooting for one outcome or the other on Sunday in New Orleans.

Beyond that neutral stance as a broadcaster, Brady also stressed that he has no qualms with a player of Mahomes’ caliber continuing to defy critics and rewrite the record books.

“Well, I’m broadcasting the game, so I don’t really have a rooting interest per se,” Brady said. “The only thing I root for in these situations are great games. I will say if the Chiefs win, I will be very happy for them. I mean, what they’ve achieved is unmatched.

“And I think that’s cool because people always hated on us for so many years. And I didn’t understand it because all I did was like — we try to do things the right way, we try to go out there and compete for our job and win.”

The Chiefs’ dominant run as of late has led to plenty of derision from fans across the NFL, echoing some of the sour sentiment that Brady and the Patriots faced during their two-decade reign in New England.

As such, Brady seems to feel a sense of camaraderie with Mahomes and a Chiefs team that — despite having several calls go their way — has developed a knack for delivering in the clutch. Kansas City is now 17-0 in their last 17 one-score games.

“There’s an excellence that I appreciate about people who are doing other things at really high levels, because you understand the commitment that it takes for them to do what they’re doing,” Brady said. “And to be in this country and to not cheer for excellence is beyond me.”

Brady is not the only Patriots legend who wouldn’t mind seeing Mahomes and the Chiefs crowned as champions once again in 2025.

“It’s not about rooting, it’s about curiosity, and I’m curious to see if it could be done,” former Patriots linebacker Tedy Bruschi told The Boston Globe last week. “Nobody can ever take anything away from us, ever. But I always want to see if the unachievable is possible. And if they do it, I would just have a great respect and appreciation for a team that was able to do things that no one had ever done before.”

BREAKING: “jason and kylie kelce (pregnant) take 3 daughters to disney world before super bowl lix – emotional trip!”

The retired NFL star, the podcast host and their family posed at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park with Chip ‘N Dale

Kelce Family at Disney. Photo: Disney Parks/Instagram

Jason and Kylie Kelce took their three daughters on the ultimate trip ahead of Super Bowl LIX.

The retired NFL player, 37, and the pregnant podcast host, 32, recently visited Disney World along with their daughters, Wyatt, 5, Elliotte, 3, and Bennett, 23 months, and Jason’s mom Donna Kelce. The official Disney Parks Instagram page shared some adorable snaps of the Kelce crew enjoying the Animal Kingdom Theme Park in Florida.

The family posed with famous chipmunks Chip ‘n Dale in casual attire. Jason was in full safari mode, complete with a khaki vest and a sun hat, while his pregnant wife wore black mouse ears decorated with a bow, matching with her daughter Elliotte, who adorned a sun hat with ears on it.

Their oldest daughter Wyatt stood next to her grandmother, holding onto a Mickey Mouse doll. The post also featured shots of Jason posing with Elliotte and the couple posing with Chip ‘n Dale.

This is not the first time the family of five has taken a trip to the happiest place on Earth. While Jason was in Orlando, Florida, for the NFL Pro Bowl in February 2024, the Kelces made a special stop to Disney. The family was photographed hanging out with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and they dressed for the occasion.

Jason repped Mickey on his shirt, while Elliotte and Wyatt, whom he held in each arm, rocked the park’s signature mouse ears. The two girls also enjoyed some classic Disney snacks — a hot pretzel and churro — while Bennett posed with mom Kylie.

The NFL star told PHLY reporter Zach Berman, “I don’t even know what you do in the Pro Bowl anymore. But it’s down in Orlando, so I get to take my kids to Walt Disney World.”

“Not off-the-Super Bowl Walt Disney World, but as long as Wyatt gets to see Elsa, I don’t think it really matters,” he added.

Jason Kelce Poses with Wife Kylie and Their 3 Daughters at Disney.NFL/Walt Disney World

While Jason and Kylie are supporting Travis Kelce at Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, Feb. 9, their three daughters are going to be watching from home.

The mom of three told Today in an exclusive interview that ultimately “the logistics of travel, school and childcare were just too overwhelming.”

“They don’t also really watch football in a way that they would enjoy being in the stadium for the duration of the Super Bowl,” Kylie told the outlet. “So in an effort to sort of just give everyone their best shot at enjoying the day, they will be watching the Super Bowl from home.”

“Taylor Swift touches down in New Orleans, enjoys private dinner date with Travis Kelce ahead of Super Bowl weekend!”

The singer is supporting her boyfriend and the Kansas City Chiefs as they seek their third consecutive Lombardi Trophy

Photo: Gilbert Flores/Billboard via Getty; Chris Graythen/Getty

Taylor Swift has reunited with Travis Kelce ahead of his biggest game of the year.

The singer, 35, touched down in New Orleans on Friday, Feb. 7 to support her boyfriend, 35, ahead of Super Bowl Sunday when the Kansas City Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles.

Eschewing the big pre-game parties, the couple ducked into small restaurant uptown for a private dinner date, according to video obtained Fox 8 New Orleans.

“We love you and we went to your concert,” fans told Swift as she entered the restaurant.

“Thank you so much,” the singer replied as she walked up the restaurant steps with Kelce’s arm around her waist.

Swift wore a lace little black dress, heels, and a matching Hermes Constance bag. Kelce also opted for a monochromatic look, wearing a gray jacket and matching pants and sneakers. Dark sunglasses completed his look.

Kelce has been in town since last Sunday, practicing with the Chiefs and doing media interviews.

His older brother Jason and Jason’s wife Kylie Kelce are also already in New Orleans to show their support. The brothers previously went head-to-head in 2023 when the Eagles and Chiefs last met at the Super Bowl. The Chiefs emerged victorious.

“I wish he would have played another year, but you know, he’s very content where he is in life right now and I’m happy to help,” Travis told reporters on Feb. 3 of his brother, who retired from the NFL in March 2024. “He gets to be around his family girls a little bit more, you know?”

The older Kelce will, however, be cheering on his younger from the stands, along with his wife Kylie, their parents, Donna and Ed, and of course Swift for a second year in a row.

Swift is coming off a big night of her own — last Sunday’s Grammy Awards — where she was nominated for six awards but took home none. She has a career 14 wins and 58 nominations, and is the only artist to ever win album of the year four times.

The Chiefs are seeking to make history of their own with a third consecutive title on Sunday.