Jayson Tatum talks about writing career, Tatum 3s, 2K covers and more

The “Summer of Tatum” brought the 26-year-old star his first NBA title, the signing of the most lucrative player contract in league history and being named the cover athlete of NBA 2K.

This included the unveiling of the Tatum 3s, which he called his favorite sneaker among his three signature sneakers in the first part of a two-part interview that he lightly edited for clarity and grammar.

Bobby Krivitsky: Your new children's book “Baby Dunks-a-Lot” is coming out today. Have you always wanted to be an author and write a children's book, or how did that come about?

Jayson Tatum: Honestly? No. This is pretty new to me. Sam Apple, the co-writer, came to me with the idea about two years ago and I was honored. The inspiration, of course, came from the relationship I have with Deuce, and just like many parents or grandparents or teachers who read bedtime stories to their children, we are no different.

But I found it incredibly special to share our relationship with the rest of the world in some way through this children's book.

Bobby Krivitsky: Are there more Baby Dunks-a-Lot books coming in the future? And have you thought about writing a biography one day?

Jayson Tatum: You know, it's been a unique process. At first, the plan was just to do this one children's book together. But I think now – and hopefully, if it's really well received – we'll have more opportunities like this in the future.

Bobby Krivitsky: In addition to being a writer, you are also the cover athlete for NBA 2K25. You said you got emotional when Deuce surprised you with the news. Ronnie (2K) told me that makes you a “made man” in their world. What does this honor of being on the cover of 2K mean to you?

Jayson Tatum: It's special. As a kid, you dream of being in a video game; you dream of being on the cover, and not many people have ever achieved that. So I'm proud to be able to join that short list and fulfill a lifelong dream, do that and share that moment with my son and my family.

Bobby Krivitsky: And while NBA 2K25 is out now, the Tatum 3s will hit stores worldwide in October. What were your inspirations for the third edition of your signature sneaker?

Jayson Tatum: I'm really excited about this one. I think right now it's the best, my favorite signature shoe, the best of the three, and because of the stories we're going to tell about the shoe and how well it holds the color and what you can do with the patterns. I'm excited to see the reaction from fans when they see all the colors.

Bobby Krivitsky: I know a lot of people can't wait to get their hands on the new edition.

And finally, between the end of the parade and today, is there a favorite part of your offseason?

Jayson Tatum: I just came from Shanghai and Beijing with Jordan Brand and did marketing, activations and events for them and the Tatum 3s. It was just a cool experience. I was there with a couple of friends and we had a lot of fun.

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