Jayson Tatum has discovered happiness in the limelight as a standout performer in the NBA Finals. Whether it’s before or after a Celtics game, you’ll likely spot Tatum with his 4-year-old son, Deuce.

Deuce has become a recognizable figure at Celtics games, growing in popularity as Boston advances further into the postseason. It’s difficult not to love Deuce and the contagious joy he exudes alongside his father.

Following the Celtics’ Game 7 triumph over the Milwaukee Bucks, securing their spot in the Eastern Conference Finals, Deuce joined his father on the podium, eagerly expressing his anticipation for a swim in Miami. Throughout the playoffs, he has been seen distributing courtside high-fives—occasionally teasingly ignoring some individuals—and happily skipping around the Boston locker room.

Despite the demanding schedule of an NBA star, Tatum ensures he exceeds expectations in his role as a father. Deuce was born just six months after Tatum was drafted third overall by the Celtics, so he has been present for nearly every step of his father’s journey.

“In 2017 when I got drafted, I didn’t have Deuce. But he was born in 2017, so that was a big — that was the biggest year of my life,” Tatum reflected. “Starting this new chapter in my career, I just had a child. My mindset was not to sacrifice either, that I was going to be the best father as I could as well as the best basketball player.”

As they gear up for their inaugural NBA Finals game at TD Garden, Tatum recognizes that experiencing these moments with Deuce has added an extra layer of significance to his journey.

“I’m around him every day. I think being able to go through this journey together, because I was 19 when I got drafted, it’s kind of like we’re growing up together,” Tatum remarked. “As he’s gotten older, I’m going through my career, sharing these moments, experiencing this together as we grow up.”

Tatum hopes that their relationship being in the spotlight will demonstrate to young fathers everywhere that being a dad is the most important job in the world.

“I realize that I do have a platform and things like that. If I am a role model for young fathers around the world, that’s great. I think we need more role models like that,” he expressed. “Just to have more male fathers be present and things like that, show that you can do both, regardless of whenever you work, whatever your profession is.”

While the outcome of Game 3 of the NBA Finals reмɑιns uncertain, with the series tied 1-1, one thing is guaranteed—Deuce will be there, sharing every moment with his dad.