Celtics Jayson Tatum opens up on how daily life became a challenge after Achilles injury

TL;DR

Jayson Tatum shared the struggles he faced in daily life after suffering an Achilles injury during the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals. He described how even simple tasks became significant challenges during his recovery.

Key points

Jayson Tatum suffered an Achilles injury in May 2025.
Daily life became a challenge for Tatum during recovery.
He used a walker and took extra time for basic tasks.

Jayson TatumBoston CelticsNBA Eastern Conference Semifinals 2025New York Knicks

The things that Jayson Tatum went through to get back on the court for the Boston Celtics after suffering an Achilles tendon injury vs. the New York Knicks in the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Semifinals were no cakewalk. And it is not just the long rehab sessions that the St. Louis native has had to endure that taxed the Celtics star. Even the normal, quotidian things we all have to do in life became significant challenges for Tatum, as he detailed in a recent interview with TODAY's "Glass Half Full" show. "I remember vividly," explained the Duke alum. "I was in Boston that day, and I was doing my routine." "I couldn’t put weight on it, so I would have my walker to get to the shower," he added. "I would sit down, have to get undressed."

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 12: Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics lays on the court after being injured against the New York Knicks during the fourth quarter in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on May 12, 2025 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images). (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) "I would have to put this plastic thing over my leg, walk to the shower, and sit on the shower seat," recalled Tatum. "It would literally take me like 45 minutes to shower and get dressed. Then I would get on my scooter down the hall, and I would need help to get down the steps." "I remember it was raining. It was a cloudy day outside. I was going to rehab, and my head was just against the window. It was consecutive days of doing the exact same thing. And I was like, 'This is some (expletive).' It was a terrible day outside. I was having a bad day. I couldn’t believe this was my reality, and I just had a real moment." Listen to "Havlicek Stole the Pod" on: Blue Wire: iTunes: YouTube: *This article originally appeared on Celtics Wire: *

Q&A

What challenges did Jayson Tatum face after his Achilles injury?

Jayson Tatum faced significant challenges in daily activities, including using a walker to shower and taking 45 minutes to complete simple tasks.

When did Jayson Tatum suffer his Achilles injury?

Jayson Tatum suffered his Achilles injury during the fourth quarter of Game Four against the New York Knicks on May 12, 2025.

How did Jayson Tatum cope with his injury during rehabilitation?

During rehabilitation, Tatum experienced emotional struggles, feeling overwhelmed by the monotony and difficulty of his daily routine.