Jayson Tatum's Kobe Bryant-Inspired Game 7 Performance

Tatum Shares Text Message to Bryant

Before Game 7, Tatum sent a text to Bryant's phone number that read, "I got you today"

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum shared a screenshot of a text he sent to Kobe Bryant in a celebratory Instagram post after his team’s Game 7 victory over the Miami Heat.

“I got you today,” Tatum wrote in the text, which was accompanied by a purple heart emoji.

Tatum certainly did. He was a key reason that the Celtics were able to close out the series and advance to the NBA Finals. He finished the game with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists while shooting 50% from the field.

Before the game, Tatum wore a commemorative purple and gold wristband that read “24” in honor of Bryant. He also had Bryant’s initials, “KB,” written on his sneakers.

Tatum’s performance in Game 7 was a fitting tribute to Bryant, who was one of his idols. Bryant was a five-time NBA champion and 18-time All-Star who tragically died in a helicopter crash in January 2020.

Tatum’s text message to Bryant shows the respect and admiration he has for the late Lakers legend. It also serves as a reminder of the impact that Bryant had on the game of basketball and the lives of those who played it.