Author: atrang

Jayson Tatum BREAKS SILENCE ON INCREDIBLE BACKWARDS AGAINST 76ERS – 26 POINTS IS NOTHING! 🔥🏀😱

Celtics star Jayson Tatum saw no quit even down by 26 against the 76ers.

The Boston Celtics and Jayson Tatum looked overmatched and ready to get rushed out of Philadelphia Sunday. The 76ers built an astonishing 26-point lead in the second half.

Tatum and the Celtics, however, erased Philly’s lead and turned it into a 118-110 victory inside Wells Fargo Center. It’s now Boston’s largest comeback in the era of Joe Mazzulla. Boston additionally has tied for the largest comeback victory in the league this season.

Tatum opened up about the comeback, per Celtics reporter Noa Dalzell. The Celtics star, however, reminded that his team has overcame large odds before.

“Just knowing that we’ve been here before — we’ve overcame deficits. But it takes a strong group, and I give credit to Sam (Hauser) off the bench, Luke (Kornet) those guys gave us big minutes, made big plays.”

How Celtics and Jayson Tatum erased massive 76ers lead
Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Related Boston Celtics NewsArticle continues below

The Celtics banked not one, or two, but four consecutive three’s to ignite the rally. Derrick White nailed a 26-foot shot with Tatum on the assist for the first three. White came back with another three — this time a 24-footer. Hauser later came in off the bench to fire his three-point attempt that cut the lead to 19. Tatum then took a step back before firing off his own three — cutting the 76ers lead to 94-78.

Philadelphia nursed a 94-80 lead entering the fourth. Jaylen Brown started the final period scoring by making a 17-foot shot for two points. Hauser then sliced the lead to 11 twice by hitting two more three-point jumpers — one at the 10:26 mark followed by another that went through the net with under 10 minutes to go.

Tatum took the soul out of the 76ers with 6:51 left — stepping back to fling one more three to give Boston the 101-100 lead. Boston went on to outscore Philadelphia 38-16 in the fourth quarter to snatch the victory.

Tatum shot 6 of 8 from the field during the final 15 minutes of play. He led the way with 35 points. Brown tacked on 21 points while White and Kristaps Prozingis added 17 and 18 points, respectively. Hauser scored 12 off the bench. The Celtics improved to 35-15 overall and are now five games behind the Eastern Conference leading Cleveland Cavaliers.

Jordan Tatum 3 ‘Blueprint’ OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED FEBRUARY 2025 – SUPER COOL DESIGN, FANS WILL SELL OUT! 🔥👟🏀

The newest Jordan Tatum 3 is releasing in just a few weeks.

Boston Celtics’ superstar Jayson Tatum is heading to yet another NBA All-Star Game in the coming weeks, but he’ll be the first to tell you all of his focus is on the rest of the season and repeating as NBA Champions. Recently releasing his latest signature sneaker with Jordan Brand, the Jordan Tatum 3, Jayson Tatum has all the blueprints for success in the NBA. In the next coming weeks, we’ll see those schematics take form in his latest Jordan Tatum 3 release.

Originally releasing in October 2024, the Jordan Tatum 3 is the newest creation for Jayson Tatum serving as the epitome of 90’s basketball sneaker style and the performance of today’s most modern shoes. The colorways tell a story of Tatum’s life with pairs honoring important aspects of his lifetime like his hometown of St. Louis and even his son, Deuce.

This upcoming pair, titled “Blueprint,” will be a subtle nod to the winning formula the Celtics possessed during their championship run a year ago, another chapter in the career of Jayson Tatum.

Jordan Tatum 3 “Blueprint”

Jordan Tatum 3 “Blueprint” 💙 Release Date: February 17th, 2025 ($125)

The Jordan Tatum 3 “Blueprint” will come in an official ensemble of Pacific Blue/Game Royal-University Blue-White to resemble that of a stereotypical blueprint. The shoes will feature a number of blue shades throughout the upper, offset by the piping and panels creating the wave pattern through the sneaker. The outsole will feature an icy translucent blue as we see hits of white throughout the Jordan Logos to match the tongue.

A closer look will also reveal several Jordan logos scribbled in white, resembling the writing and mark-ups typically seen throughout a blueprint or building plans. All in all, this is a very creative concept and looks balanced with all the different hues of blue meshing to create a nice colorway.

The Jordan Tatum 3 “Blueprint” is expected to release February 17, 2025 for a retail tag of $125. The shoes will come in full sizing as they have in the past and we should see a wide release on Nike SNKRS app come release day. What do you think of this latest iteration of the Tatum 3?

Jayson Tatum REVEALS THE ‘CANDID’ MOMENT THAT HELPED THE CELTICS TRANSFORM WITH A 26-POINT COME-BACK!🔥🏀

Joe Mazzulla reminded the Celtics starters that he had the option to sit them on the bench, according to Tatum.

Jayson Tatum. Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images

Tyrese Maxey, who spoiled Boston’s Christmas Day outing last month, was in the process of torching them again. He hit four of his first five 3-point attempts, and his confidence was overflowing as Philadelphia jumped out to a 17-point halftime lead.

The Celtics’ defense looked porous, even with Sixers stars Joel Embiid and Paul George in street clothes. The listlessness on defensive rotations and closeouts that plagued Boston during select moments throughout the season had returned.

Other than Kristaps Porzingis hitting the occasional jumper from way beyond the 3-point line, the Celtics did not have much going offensively.

All the ingredients for an ugly loss to an 11th place team were there. But, somehow, the Celtics dug their way out of the deficit.

“We just had to be honest with ourselves at halftime,” Jayson Tatum said. “They had 20 points in transition. We just – our competitive spirit wasn’t where it needed to be, and Joe (Mazzulla) was like ‘yo if you’re tired, then just tell me, I’ll sit you guys down and let the Stay Ready group play. We just had a choice to make.”

The Celtics chose to turn it on in the second-half, but the process did not work immediately. Philadelphia led by as much as 26 points in the third quarter.

“It was a long third quarter,” Tatum said. “It didn’t go our way right away and we just had to keep fighting, but it brought the best out of us. That’s how we’re supposed to play. It took a little bit from everybody. Our competitive joy was there on both ends and it was just fun to be a part of.”

Ex-Celtic Guerschon Yabusele beat on his chest after dunking on Derrick White, a visual example of how confident the Sixers were in their big lead. It felt, in that moment, that it simply wasn’t the Celtics’ night, White said.

“Just kind of frustrated,” White said. “Trying to get back into the game that’s like a 5-point swing. Tried to tell our guys to stick together, stick with it and found a way to get a win.”

The Celtics clamped down on Philadelphia late, allowing just 16 points in the third quarter. Maxey was limited to two points in the quarter, both of which came on free-throws.

Meanwhile, Tatum, White, and Sam Hauser caught fire from 3-point range, shooting a combined 7-for-8 from three in the final frame. The looks the Celtics were getting weren’t much different from the ones in the first-half, Mazzulla said while shaking his head.

“The math evened out, but you’ve got to play hard, math and effort,” Mazzulla said. “We played hard in the second half and the math caught up, which gave us a chance and then we executed, made some big-time plays on both ends.”

Jaylen Brown said the Celtics were able to adjust their mindset, which led to the second-half comeback.

“It’s the NBA,” Brown said. “On any given night, there’s enough talent where teams can play well. But, we’re the better team. We just had to stick with it. They were trying to mix it up. Give credit to Nick Nurse, he had his guys prepared and they threw some different coverages at us to try to slow us down.”

“But, once we just started playing basketball and forgetting about what coverage they’re in, forget about the referees, just come out and play, the game will take care of itself.

Beyonce Makes History, Becomes First Black Woman to Win a Grammy For Best Country Album

Nationwide — Beyoncé has once again made history, becoming the first Black woman ever to win a Grammy for Best Country Album. Her groundbreaking achievement shatters barriers in a genre that has long been dominated by white artists and often overlooked the contributions of Black musicians. According to Billboard, this win for Cowboy Carter, she not only cements her status as one of the most versatile and influential artists of all time but also opens the door for greater recognition of diversity in country music.

This historic moment with her husband Jay-Z and her daughter Blue Ivy is significant because country music has deep roots in Black culture, yet Black artists have struggled for visibility in the mainstream industry. Beyoncé’s victory challenges outdated perceptions of who belongs in country music and proves that talent transcends racial and genre-based boundaries. Her album’s success demonstrates that country audiences are ready to embrace broader representation and that Black artists deserve their rightful place in the genre.

Beyond the award itself, Beyoncé’s win is a cultural shift that will inspire future generations of Black country artists. It sends a powerful message to the industry that inclusion and recognition are long overdue. As the first Black woman to take home this honor, she paves the way for others to follow, ensuring that country music continues to evolve and reflect the diverse voices that have always been a part of its foundation.

During her speech, she said, “I’d like to thank all of the incredible country artists that accepted this album. We worked so hard on it. I think sometimes genre is a code word to keep us in our place as artists, and I just wanna encourage people to do what they’re passionate about and to stay persistent. Wow, I’d like to thank my beautiful family, all of the artists that were collaborators. Thank you. This wouldn’t have been this album without you. I’d like to thank God again and my fans, and I still am in shock, so thank you so much for this honor.”

18 Pictures of Taylor Swift Having the Best Night Ever at the 2025 Grammys

From dancing in the crowd with Margaret Qualley to presenting a Grammy to Beyoncé, see all the fun Taylor Swift had at music’s biggest night

Taylor Swift had a big night at the Grammys!

Though she didn’t take home a statue this year, she presented the award for best country album to Beyoncé, got up on her feet to dance with Margaret Qualley and gave her newly-minted Grammy-winning pal Sabrina Carpenter a kiss on the forehead. And lucky for us — it was all caught on camera!

From the personal details included in her Grammy night look to her secret chat with Chappell Roan, see all the best photos of Swift from the Feb. 2 ceremony.

All Red Everything

Taylor Swift.Frazer Harrison/Getty

Taylor Swift arrived at Sunday’s awards in a red mini dress by Vivienne Westwood paired with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and Casadei heels.

Signature Style

Taylor Swift.Jon Kopaloff/WireImage

And of course — she rocked her signature red lip.

 

Strike a Pose

Taylor Swift.Jon Kopaloff/WireImage

The red details didn’t stop there as her nails were also painted a deep red.

 

All in the Details

Taylor Swift.ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty

And not only did the color of her ensemble seem to represent her boyfriend Travis Kelce’s Kansas City Chiefs, a chain hung on her thigh featured a red initial “T” —a likely nod to the tight end’s name (and perhaps some of her lyrics).

See Ya!

Taylor Swift.Frazer Harrison/Getty

As she made her way down the jam-packed carpet, she flashed a wave.

 

Backstage Photo Op

Monte Lipman and Taylor Swift.Lester Cohen/Getty

Once inside, Swift posed alongside Republic Records CEO Monte Lipman.

 

Blonde Ambition

Taylor Swift and Sabrina Carpenter.Kevin Mazur/Getty

Swift shared a sweet moment with her newly-minted Grammy-winning friend Sabrina Carpenter from the crowd.

 

Big Fans

Margaret Qualley and Taylor Swift.Kevin Mazur/Getty

During the ceremony Swift was seated next to her pals and regular seat mates Jack Antonoff and his wife Margaret Qualley.

Shake It Off

Margaret Qualley and Taylor Swift.John Shearer/Getty

Qualley and Swift got on their feet during the night’s performances to dance.

And the Winner Is….

Taylor Swift.Kevin Winter/Getty

While Swift did not perform, she did take the stage to present best country album — an award she won 15 years ago.

Passing the Baton

Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.John Salangsang/Shutterstock

She then presented the award to Beyoncé for her album Cowboy Carter.

Teenage Dream

Blue Ivy and Taylor Swift.Gauthier / Los Angeles Times via Getty

During the show, Swift caught up with Beyoncé’s eldest daughter Blue Ivy who was there supporting mom.

Mum’s the Word

Chappell Roan and Taylor Swift.Johnny Nunez/Getty

After throwing a black blazer over her red dress, Swift caught up with best new artist winner Chappell Roan — though kept their conversation top-secret.

Rock Legend

Taylor Swift, Bob Weir and Natascha Weir.Kevin Mazur/Getty

She also posed for a photo with Grateful Dead founding member Bob Weir and his wife Natascha Weir.

Something to Celebrate

Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar.Johnny Nunez/Getty

As Kendrick Lamar accepted the award for record of the year, Swift raised her glass of champagne in celebration.

Dance Partner

Taylor Swift dances with Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz’s son Genesis.Swizz Beatz/Instagram

During Shakira’s performance, Swift jumped up and down with Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz’s son Genesis — a longtime Swiftie.

Bottoms Up

Taylor Swift.Kevin Mazur/Getty

With a champagne bottle in one hand and a glass in the other, Swift really was the life of the party.

Cheers!

CBS

Swift ended the night toasting Jay-Z as his wife Beyoncé took the stage to accept Album of the Year.

Taylor Swift CAUSES A FEVER WEARING Janelle Monáe’S DRESS – AFTER CAUGHT HER ON THE 2025 GRAMMY STAGE!🔥👀🎤

Taylor Swift is fangirling over Janelle Monáe!

On Sunday, Feb. 2, Swift, 35, appeared on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards wearing an eye-catching red mini-dress by Vivienne Westwood. But fans on X were quick to spot that later in the evening she had accessorized her outfit with a jacket earlier worn by Monáe, 39.

Monáe had thrown her tuxedo jacket into the audience of celebrities while performing Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough” in tribute to the late Quincy Jones.

“The way she caught the jacket and put it on is sending me 😭 #grammys,” an X user wrote, referring to Swift.

Taylor Swift, pictured.Francis Specker/CBS via Getty

Celebrities were seen dancing as Monáe took to the stage wearing a classic tuxedo which she accessorized with silver socks and penny loafers in a nod to Jackson.

Janelle Monáe, pictured left, Taylor Swift, pictured right.Amy Sussman/Getty; Kevin Mazur/Getty

When she removed and threw her jacket and ripped open her shirt, it was revealed that she was wearing a graphic T-Shirt bearing the words “I [heart] QJ.”

Jones was 91 when he died at his Los Angeles home on Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024.

Janelle Monáe, pictured.Kevin Mazur/Getty

Swift cheered in triumph when she caught the item and appeared to be in good spirits despite not winning any of the six Grammys she had been nominated for.

The “Shake It Off” singer was spotted clinking champagne glasses with Jay-Z after Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter won for album of the year rather than her recent offering, The Tortured Poets Department.

She also danced happily with a young fan during Shakira’s first Grammy Awards performance since 2007.

Olivia Rodrigo debuts beau at Grammys, Taylor Swift jams to Charli XCX: What you didn’t see on TV

LOS ANGELES — Under a layer of smog that served as a reminder of last month’s deadly wildfires, the 2025 Grammy Awards aimed to be a beacon for a city that is reeling from the historic destruction.

Inside downtown LA’s Crypto.com Arena Sunday night, Kendrick Lamar achieved a sweep with his Drake diss track, Beyoncé finally snagged the elusive album of the year award, and Taylor Swift danced the night away despite experiencing a rare shutout from the Recording Academy. This all in between mournful and reflective moments that punctuated the telecast’s fundraising for wildfire relief efforts.

USA TODAY had all the details of the 2025 Grammys, from the red carpet to inside the show and also backstage. These were the best moments we caught that didn’t make it to air.

Olivia Rodrigo and Louis Partridge make their award show debut

Louis Partridge and Olivia Rodrigo attend the 67th annual Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles.© Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Olivia Rodrigo might be best known for biting and catchy breakup songs like “Vampire” and “Drivers License,” but she looked completely loved up at the Grammys. Nominated for her “Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes” song “Can’t Catch Me Now,” the 21-year-old sat at a table stage right with “Enola Holmes” actor Louis Partridge.

The lovebirds were often leaning toward each other in their seats, and during one of the night’s performances the 2021 best new artist winner held Partridge’s hand as it was wrapped around her bare hip.

After crossing the floor and speaking at length with Gracie Abrams and her friend/collaborator Audrey Hobert — with Abrams and Rodrigo chatting up a storm while Hobert and Partridge kept each other company — the couple dashed hand-in-hand back to their seats at the end of a commercial break.

Jay-Z and Beyoncé hold court

Jay-Z, Beyoncé and Bruno Mars pose together at the 67th Annual GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles.© Johnny Nunez/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

After they arrived right in time for Beyoncé’s best country album win, the Carters’ table became one of the most popular stops for friends, colleagues and schmoozers seated in the VIP floor section.

For the record, though, Beyoncé was absent from the telecast for at least an hour after collecting her trophy from Swift and only glided across the floor to retake her throne when the Quincy Jones tribute was underway. (During which, by the way, Swift — and her glass of white wine — made a rare cross-floor journey to whisper like schoolchildren with “Us” collaborator Abrams.)

During his wife’s absence, Jay-Z (who is now embroiled in a sexual assault lawsuit) greeted the likes of Will Smith, his children Willow and Jaden Smith, Dr. Dre, Queen Latifah and best new artist hopefuls Doechii and Shaboozey. His and Beyoncé’s 13-year-old daughter, Blue Ivy, mostly seemed to keep to herself, with the exception of one lengthy conversation with an A-lister.

©Kevin Winter, Getty Images for The Recording A

Beyoncé, accompanied onstage by her daughter Blue Ivy Carter, accepts album of the year for “Cowboy Carter.”

Taylor Swift greets Jay-Z, gets deep in conversation with daughter Blue Ivy

After Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars delivered their tribute to LA with a cover of “California Dreamin’,” Swift exchanged some words with Jay-Z at a neighboring table. When the show cut to commercial break, she sauntered over to Blue Ivy for a conversation that lasted at least five minutes.

At one point, Abrams and Hobert journeyed from their stage left section and joined the conversation. Swift also cupped her hand around her mouth and whispered into Blue Ivy’s ear to share what might have been either a private comment or a statement that couldn’t be heard over the noise.

Jack Antonoff snaps pics of Taylor Swift, wife Margaret Qualley on his digital camera

Bleachers singer and hit music producer Jack Antonoff might not have taken home any wins for himself, but he likely captured some gold with the palm-sized camera he occasionally whipped out to photograph candid moments.

Lucky for him, hardly a performance goes by at any Grammys show without some dancing from his friend, longtime collaborator and tablemate Swift.

With an Electric Lady Studios tote bag slung behind his chair, Antonoff stood to photograph Swift and his wife Margaret Qualley dancing to Billie Eilish’s “Birds of a Feather,” with Swift twirling “The Substance” actress and swooshing her dress around. Later, Antonoff emitted a flash as he snapped a picture of Swift dancing along to The Weeknd’s surprise set.

St. Vincent reveals she’s married and welcomed a daughter: ‘We kept it under wraps’

St. Vincent poses with her trophies for best rock song, best alternative music performance and best alternative music album during the 67th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Feb. 2, 2025.© Mike Blake, REUTERS

Before taking the stage for an ensemble performance of “I Love L.A.,” St. Vincent made a splash during the Premiere Ceremony by not only winning three Grammys (best rock song, best alternative music performance and best alternative music album) but also dropping some shocking personal updates during acceptance speeches. Not only did the 42 year old thank “my beautiful wife Leia” from the stage of the pre-telecast ceremony but also the couple’s “beautiful daughter.”

Backstage, she confirmed the baby news. “We kept it under wraps,” she said, adding, “She’s young. The baby, not the wife.”

If the acclaimed guitarist was short on details, it might be due to bigger issues such as holding all three Grammys at once. “These are getting heavy, if I’m honest,” St. Vincent said. “I feel like my delts are on fire.”

Doechii wanted to ‘prove herself’ with her feat of a performance

Doechii performs onstage during the 67th annual Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles.© Kevin Mazur, Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Following her electrifying performance of “Catfish” and “Denial is a River,” Doechii chatted backstage about her landmark win for best rap album.

“It feels incredible. It feels bigger than me, a movement. Art wins. Authenticity wins. Vulnerability wins,” she told reporters.

Of her standout medley performance that involved a treadmill and tear-away costume, Doechii said it was one of the most difficult ones she’s ever done, but felt the need to push herself: “It meant everything to prove myself tonight. It was about Broadway and dance and theater and art, and I think I brought that to the stage.”

Taylor Swift twirls with Alicia Keys’ son, jams out to Charli XCX

Swift got creative with some of her dancing throughout the night. As Shakira got the crowd on their feet with “Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53,” Swift jumped up and down with 10-year-old Genesis Ali Dean, Alicia Keys’ son, and had him give her a twirl.

Later, Swift put the nail in the coffin of rumors of bad blood with Charli XCX, who was suspected of making a dig at Swift in “Sympathy is a knife.” As the “Brat” hitmaker performed “Von dutch” and made it rain undergarments in “Guess,” Swift was in her nightclub best, donning what seemed to be Antonoff’s thick, black-rimmed glasses and bopping around with a gold bottle of booze in hand.

After the set, which featured Swift’s rumored ex Matty Healy’s current fiancée Gabbriette Bechtel, the popstar poured the rest of the bottle into a neighbor’s outstretched wine glass.

SZA plays coy about Kendrick Lamar’s Super Bowl halftime show

SZA presents the best pop duo/group performance trophy during the 67th annual GRAMMY Awards at Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles.© Kevin Winter, Getty Images for The Recording Academy

SZA skipped the Grammys red carpet and slid into the awards show after winning her Grammy for best R&B song “Saturn” in the pre-broadcast ceremony.

The “All the Stars” singer kept her low-key streak going backstage, declining to give any details about her upcoming Super Bowl halftime performance alongside headliner Kendrick  Lamar.

“That’s King Kendrick’s performance. All I’ll say is, he’s working really hard at it,” she said.

After losing homes to wildfires, Dawes opens the show as Grammys first-timer

Brittany Howard, Sheryl Crow, Taylor Goldsmith of Dawes, Brad Paisley and John Legend perform “I Love L.A.” during the 67th annual Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena on Feb. 2, 2025, in Los Angeles.© Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

Taylor and Griffin Goldsmith of Dawes had never attended the Grammys in the band’s 15-plus-year history, but the brothers have found themselves as real-world examples of how the region’s wildfires impacted the music community, having lost their homes and studio last month.

Dawes, who along opened the Grammys with a performance of Randy Newman’s “I Love L.A.”  alongside John Legend, St. Vincent, Sheryl Crow, Brad Paisley and Brittany Howard, said backstage that the assembly came together a week and a half ago.

“We used to think maybe the (Grammys) aren’t part of our journey (as a band), but oh, now we get to open the show,” Taylor said backstage. “It’s wild to think of how our childhood dreams could meet up with the opportunity to help our community.”

Boston Celtics Superstar Jayson Tatum Rejects $919 Million Nike Contract After Shocking Announcement

BOSTON, MA — In a stunning development that has rocked both the sports and business worlds, Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum has officially rejected a record-breaking $919 million endorsement contract from Nike. The deal, which would have made Tatum one of the highest-paid athletes in endorsement history, was expected to solidify his status not just as an NBA icon but also as a global marketing powerhouse. However, Tatum’s shocking announcement about his future has left fans, analysts, and corporate executives scrambling for answers.

Tatum’s decision comes on the heels of a cryptic message he shared during a press conference, leaving the basketball world in suspense. The Celtics forward, known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances, announced that he “won’t be able to fulfill commitments that require long-term obligations,” sparking widespread speculation about his future both on and off the court.

This article dives deep into the details of the rejected Nike contract, the potential reasons behind Tatum’s decision, and what this means for the NBA, the Celtics, and the business of sports endorsements.

The $919 Million Nike Deal: A Historic Offer

Breaking Down the Contract

Nike’s proposed contract for Jayson Tatum wasn’t just any endorsement deal—it was set to be one of the largest in sports history, rivaling even the legendary lifetime deals signed by global icons like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Total Value: $919 million

Duration: 10-year contract with an option for lifetime extension

Annual Earnings: Approximately $91.9 million per year

Incentives: Performance bonuses tied to NBA MVP awards, Finals appearances, and championship victories

Equity Stake: A groundbreaking clause that would have given Tatum an equity share in Nike’s basketball division, a first-of-its-kind incentive

Nike planned to launch an entirely new signature line under Tatum’s name, including sneakers, apparel, and lifestyle merchandise. The brand had already developed prototypes for the “Tatum Legacy Series”, which were expected to debut in the 2025 NBA season.

Why This Deal Was Historic

Nike’s offer reflected Tatum’s meteoric rise in the NBA. The 6-foot-8 forward has become the face of the Boston Celtics, leading them to multiple deep playoff runs and earning All-NBA honors. His combination of scoring prowess, leadership, and marketability made him an ideal candidate for Nike’s next global ambassador.

The $919 million deal would have placed Tatum in elite company:

Michael Jordan (Nike): Lifetime deal estimated at over $1 billion in revenue

LeBron James (Nike): Lifetime deal valued at over $1 billion

Cristiano Ronaldo (Nike): Lifetime deal worth approximately $1 billion

For Tatum to walk away from such an offer is unprecedented, raising serious questions about his motivations.

Tatum’s Shocking Announcement: What We Know So Far

The Press Conference That Changed Everything

On Monday morning, in a packed media room at the Celtics’ training facility, Jayson Tatum addressed the press with an announcement that no one saw coming. Dressed in a simple black hoodie and Celtics cap, he spoke candidly but with visible emotion.

> “I’ve been blessed beyond measure with opportunities on and off the court. But after deep reflection, I’ve decided I won’t be able to commit to long-term obligations that require extensive personal branding and global marketing commitments. This isn’t about money—it’s about purpose, balance, and personal growth.” — Jayson Tatum

Tatum did not elaborate on the specifics of what led to his decision, but his words hinted at a personal transformation or life change that has shifted his priorities. The phrase “long-term obligations” fueled speculation about his future in basketball, endorsements, and even his personal life.

Speculation and Theories: Why Did Tatum Say No?

Since the announcement, theories have flooded social media and sports talk shows. Here are some of the most prominent speculations:

1. Potential Early Retirement?

Some analysts speculate that Tatum might be considering an early retirement from professional basketball. While this seems unlikely given his age (just 26) and peak performance level, it wouldn’t be unprecedented. Athletes like Andrew Luck and Calvin Johnson retired early to prioritize personal well-being over professional demands.

Could Tatum be following a similar path? His statement about “purpose and personal growth” adds fuel to this theory.

2. Family Priorities and Personal Life Changes

Tatum has always been open about his close relationship with his son, Deuce. Some fans believe he may want to spend more time with his family, avoiding the relentless travel and media obligations that come with global endorsements.

There’s also speculation about potential developments in his personal life—whether related to family expansion, health concerns, or other personal commitments—that could have influenced his decision.

3. A New Business Venture?

Another theory is that Tatum may be planning to launch his own brand. Rejecting Nike’s deal could be a strategic move to create an independent business venture, similar to what Stephen Curry did with Under Armour, where he negotiated an equity stake that turned him into more than just an endorser.

If Tatum is looking to establish his own brand, it could redefine the athlete-endorsement relationship in the modern era.

4. Philosophical Shift Away from Commercialism

Some insiders suggest Tatum’s decision reflects a broader philosophical shift. In an era where mental health and authenticity are increasingly prioritized, perhaps Tatum simply wants to distance himself from the overwhelming demands of corporate sponsorships.

His comment about “balance and personal growth” suggests that money isn’t his primary motivator—a bold stance in today’s hyper-commercialized sports world.

Impact on the NBA and the Celtics

For the Boston Celtics

Tatum’s decision could have ripple effects on the Celtics organization. While his rejection of Nike’s deal doesn’t directly impact his NBA contract, it raises questions about his long-term commitment to the sport.

If Tatum’s announcement signals a potential early retirement or career shift, the Celtics’ championship aspirations could be in jeopardy. However, sources within the organization remain optimistic, with head coach Joe Mazzulla stating:

“Jayson is locked in with the team. His decision doesn’t change who he is to us—a leader, a competitor, and the heart of this franchise.”

For the NBA’s Global Brand

The NBA heavily relies on global superstars like Tatum to expand its international reach. His partnership with Nike would have fueled global marketing campaigns, especially in key markets like China and Europe.

Tatum’s rejection of such a high-profile deal could prompt the NBA to rethink how it supports players in balancing commercial obligations with personal well-being.

Nike’s Response: A Corporate Shockwave

Nike, a company known for securing lifetime deals with its biggest stars, has been noticeably quiet since the announcement. However, an anonymous source within the company shared:

> “We were caught off guard. The deal was unprecedented, and we believed it was mutually beneficial. But we respect Jayson’s decision and his focus on personal priorities.”

The rejection of a $919 million contract is a rare corporate event. Nike will likely pivot to other rising NBA stars, but losing Tatum—especially after months of negotiation—is a significant blow.

Fan Reactions: Shock, Support, and Speculation

Social media erupted within minutes of Tatum’s announcement. Reactions ranged from disbelief to admiration:

@CelticsFanForLife: “I can’t believe Tatum turned down nearly a billion dollars. But respect to him for staying true to himself. #RoleModel”

@NBAHotTakes: “Tatum rejecting $919M?! There’s gotta be more to this story. Is he retiring? Starting his own brand? What’s going on?!”

@SneakerHead247: “Nike’s Tatum Legacy Series was going to be 🔥. I was ready to cop. This hurts.”

While some fans expressed disappointment, most admired Tatum’s courage to prioritize personal values over financial gain.

What’s Next for Jayson Tatum?

As the dust settles, the world waits to see what Tatum’s next move will be. Whether he’s planning to focus more on family, start a new business venture, or simply redefine his relationship with fame and endorsements, one thing is clear: Jayson Tatum is unapologetically carving his own path.

His decision may inspire a new generation of athletes to think differently about success—not just in terms of contracts and championships but in terms of personal fulfillment.

Conclusion: A Defining Moment in Sports History

Jayson Tatum’s rejection of a $919 million Nike contract is more than a headline—it’s a defining moment in sports history. It challenges long-held assumptions about what motivates elite athletes and forces us to reconsider the true meaning of success.

In an era obsessed with wealth and celebrity, Tatum’s bold choice reminds us that authenticity, purpose, and personal values can matter more than any dollar amount.

As Tatum himself said during his announcement:

“I’ve always believed in betting on myself. But sometimes, the biggest bet you can make is on who you are—not what the world expects you to be.”

And with that, Jayson Tatum has proven once again that he’s not just a superstar on the court—he’s a trailblazer off it.

All the Easter eggs in Taylor Swift’s red-hot Grammys 2025 outfit — including her Travis Kelce tributes

Taylor Swift is feeling so high school (musical).

The pop star sent fans reeling when she arrived on the Grammys 2025 red carpet in a glittering scarlet Vivienne Westwood minidress and a delicate ruby “T” charm (designed by Swift herself, in collaboration with Lorraine Schwartz) wrapped around her thigh.

While the look seemed to be a clear tribute to boyfriend Travis Kelce rather than a hidden message about upcoming music, there are still plenty of Easter eggs to unpack.

Taylor Swift arrived on the Grammys 2025 red carpet in a bold red Vivienne Westwood dress. FilmMagic

The custom mini featured elegant draping and a dangerously high slit. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for The Recording Academy

The pop star repped boyfriend Travis Kelce with a custom ruby “T” charm, designed in collaboration with Lorraine Schwartz. Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP

Loving him was red

Crimson is an ever-present color in Swift’s life these days, from her signature lipstick to the Kansas City Chiefs’ team hues. The shade’s come up over and over again in her work, too — dating back to 2008’s “Love Story,” when she declared, “you were Romeo, I was a scarlet letter.”

It even inspired Swift’s 2012 album, “Red”; in the title track, she sings, “Loving him was red.” But in “Daylight,” from 2019’s “Lover,” the Grammy winner recanted her original statement: “I once believed love would be burning red, but it’s golden.”

While that lyric may have been inspired by Swift’s then-boyfriend, Joe Alwyn, current beau Kelce happened to step off the plane in New Orleans ahead of the Super Bowl on Sunday night in — what else? — a gold tracksuit, repping his team’s other hue.

Swift and Kelce have been dating for more than a year, with the pop star making many appearances at his Kansas City Chiefs games dressed in red. Getty Images

The singer routinely incorporates rubies into her game-day looks, as well as custom Kelce-themed jewelry. Sports Illustrated via Getty Images

Kelce arrived in New Orleans on Sunday ahead of the Super Bowl in a gold tracksuit. chiefs/Instagram
Swift’s “T” charm instantly drew comparisons to a lyric from her most recent album, 2024’s “The Tortured Poets Department.” In “Guilty as Sin?” she asks, “What if he’s written ‘mine’ on my upper thigh only in my mind?”

The jewelry also called to mind a line from 2017’s “Call It What You Want”: “I want to wear his initial on a chain ’round my neck.

As Swifties were quick to point out, that’s exactly what Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens) did with the necklace Troy (Zac Efron) gifted her in “High School Musical 2,” the second installment in the Disney Channel’s franchise following a jock who falls in love with a brainy singer. Sound familiar?

The rubies that I gave up

Swift may have been drawn to rubies for reasons beyond their fiery color. The gem serves as the birthstone for July, and in that month in 2023, Kelce tried and failed to give Swift his phone number on a friendship bracelet during her Kansas City stop on the Eras Tour.

Rumors of their romance began swirling around that time, though they didn’t officially confirm their relationship status until September.

Shop ’til you drop with Post Wanted

Save time and money with the latest deals, discounts, trends, reviews and more.

Thanks for signing up!

Fans even dissected the shape of the “T,” with eagle-eyed Swifties recognizing the serif font from the official lyric video for “So High School” — her 2024 tune dedicated to Kelce. (Lyrics include, “You know how to ball, I know Aristotle.”)

In the clip, the songstress illuminates the letters “T,” “K,” “T,” and “S” in a sweet nod to their initials, with the font matching the charm’s.

While the same classic typeface has featured heavily throughout her “Tortured Poets” era, it’s worth noting that Swift walked on stage to present the award for best country album not to her Grammy-nominated hit “Fortnight,” but rather — you guessed it — “So High School.”

Vivienne Westwood is a go-to designer for Swift, who wore a dress and purse from the brand while on a double date in Amsterdam with the Mahomeses. Instagram/brittanylynne

She wore a plaid Westwood set to an October 2024 Chiefs game, too. Getty Images

We never go out of style

While the font talk and color comparisons could be a stretch, it’s plain to see that Swift’s a major Vivienne Westwood fan.

She’s worn the British brand on many dates with Kelce, including the blue midi dress and heart-shaped purse she picked for a hang with the Mahomeses in Amsterdam. She also opted for a plaid Westwood corset top and skirt for an October 2024 Chiefs game.

In May, Swift debuted the “Tortured Poets Department” section of her Eras Tour, which was costumed entirely by Vivienne Westwood. Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

Travis Kelce made a surprise appearance on stage during “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart” in London. Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management
Swift also added an entire section to her Eras Tour in May after releasing “TTPD,” for which she was outfitted in multiple custom Vivienne Westwood designs. (Who could forget when Kelce made a surprise appearance on stage in a tuxedo and top hat during that part of the show?)

The stylish “Grotesquerie” actor even wore Vivienne Westwood himself when he attended model Karen Elson’s wedding as Swift’s date.

Her “T” charm was reminiscent of the bedazzled garter she wore at the end of each Eras Tour show. Getty Images for TAS Rights Management

And may call to mind the buckled Halara skort she wore to Coachella 2024 with Kelce. WWD via Getty Images
Swift may have been inspired to add the thigh charm by a different Eras Tour outfit: her blue “Midnights” bodysuit by Zuhair Murad, which Swift accessorized with a garter to perform songs including “Vigilante S—t” and “Karma.” (In the latter, she occasionally switched up the lyrics to shout out her “the guy on the Chiefs” rather than her ex “on the screen.”)

It also recalls the edgy Halara skort she wore to Coachella 2024 alongside Kelce, with its high slit and buckled leg strap.

Whatever Swift’s inspiration, we can’t wait to see how she tops her high-fashion cheerleader look at the Super Bowl 2025 in New Orleans this Sunday as Kelce’s Chiefs take on the Philadelphia Eagles.

GRAMMY 2025 CHAOS? Taylor Swift & Cynthia Erivo HAD TO SHARE A SEAT – WHAT HAPPENED? 😱🔥🎤

Footage from the Crypto.com arena showed the pop superstar scoot over for the ‘Wicked’ actress while the night kicked off

Taylor Swift and Cynthia Erivo share a seat at the 2025 Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, 2025. Photo:  Paramount +

Taylor Swift and Cynthia Erivo were apparently defying the seating chart at the Grammys, but all for good reason!

On Sunday, Feb. 2, the pop superstar and Oscar-nominated Wicked actress may have had their own seats during the 2025 Grammys at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, but viewers quickly noticed at the top of the broadcast that the duo were actually sharing a single seat together!

Swift, 35, and Erivo, 38, notably appeared on screen together while the night’s host, Trevor Noah, gave a rundown of just how “big” the Grammys is. Behind him, the pair could be seen giggling, reacting to some of Noah’s jokes and effortlessly sitting up straight despite appearing to share one chair, per footage from the event’s broadcast shared by Entertainment Tonight.

At one point, Erivo and Swift even appeared to recreate the “holding space” meme from Wicked‘s press tour, as Swift smiled while she grabbed Erivo’s finger on air.

Taylor Swift and Cynthia Erivo share a seat at the 2025 Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, 2025. Paramount +

While it wasn’t quite clear at first what brought the duo together, footage from the arena captured by The Hollywood Reporter shows that Erivo entered the venue’s floor and appeared to look around for her seat as the show kicked off. As Erivo walked closer to Noah, who was standing up and delivering part of a monologue, Swift waved her down, partly moved over and put her arm around Erivo as she sat down next to her.

According to the night’s seating chart, Erivo had been positioned to sit at a table alongside Queen Latifah and John Legend. Also at the Swift table were Margaret Qualley and Swift’s producer pal Jack Antonoff.

“Late arrival for Wicked star Cynthia Erivo who is accompanied by an escort to table joining Taylor Swift who waves her over,” wrote writer Chris Gardner, who captured the footage. “#Grammys Trevor Noah still hosting as she sneaks over.”

Taylor Swift and Cynthia Erivo attend the 67th Grammy Awards on Feb. 2, 2025.Amy Sussman/Getty

It was a big night for both Swift and Erivo. While Swift celebrated her six nominations, Erivo performed alongside Herbie Hancock for a heartwarming and star-studded tribute to music legend Quincy Jones, who died in November at age 91. Before Stevie Wonder, Janelle Monáe, Lainey Wilson and Jacob Collier arrived on the stage to share their own renditions of Jones’ many classics, Erivo kicked things off with a slowed-down, piano-side rendition of Frank Sinatra’s 1964 hit, “Fly Me to the Moon.”

Throughout the night, Swift was also at the center of a few other viral moments — from toasting with Jay-Z after Beyoncé’s album of the year win for Cowboy Carter to even catching a piece of one performer’s attire!

During the Jones tribute, as Janelle Monáe shared a high-energy rendition of Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ’til You Get Enough,” Swift actually caught the suit jacket that Monáe threw in the air and continued wearing it for much of the night.