Jayson Tatum’s Tattoo Count: How Many Does He Have?

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Tattoos are often an extension of one’s persona. And Jayson Tatum is no different. The NBA star waited until 2017 to get his first tattoo, but the pain stopped him from going full throttle. When he had his son, however, Jayson had a change of heart “I wanted something to compliment this leg. Then I got a picture of my mom.” This would begin a series of tattoos that have since been the subject of intrigue for fans and experts alike.

Jayson Tatum’s love for the game and “Basketball with Wings”

Getting a tattoo for the sport was a no-brainer for the Celtics star. Despite being the youngest player in the history of the Celtics to reach 10,000 points, Tatum still has much more to achieve. Tatum’s tattoo of a basketball with wings, which is located on his right leg, signifies his love for the game and his drive to reach new professional heights. This tattoo also acts as a reminder to stay motivated to attain his objectives and break past his potential.

Destiny and purpose are all but “God’s Will”

Religion is something personally important for the 26-year-old. Adding to his collection over the years, Tatum dedicated one of his tattoos to his love for god. Sprawled across his upper back are the words ‘God’s Will‘, with Jesus Christ in between the two words. Along with them, he also added the words, “Proverbs 3:5-6”.

The Bible says, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” The combo tattoos signify his belief in destiny and his acceptance of life’s journey.

Father Tatum Engraves Son’s “Deuce” name on hand

Tatum has an exquisite tattoo of himself wearing his number 0 jersey and a baseball hat backward while holding his son, Jayson Tatum Jr. His left leg is covered in ink, with the inscription “Like father, like son” underneath. If these weren’t enough to demonstrate his love for his kid, he also has the number “98” on his right knee, which represents the year he was born, and “Big Deuce,” his son’s nickname, on his hand.

The tattoo represents the bond between the father and son and the dedication Jayson has towards his son. The Celtics superstar is going nowhere and aims to ensure he has a healthy bond with his son. It further shows his dedication to his family and his career.

A Higher Power is always watching Tatum’s back as the “Cross with Wings” 

Along with the tattoo of “God’s Will”, Jesus Christ, and Proverb 3:56, Tatum has another tattoo to show his deep love towards his faith. A cross with wings partners the other tattoos to show his trust in faith and spirituality. Tatum has been open and transparent about his faith and the significance it has in his life. This tattoo reminds him that he is not alone and is guided by a higher force.

Remembering his home in “St. Louis” 

Tatum’s right arm bears the words “St. Louis, ’til the world blows”, which signify his hometown and the pride he feels for where he was raised. The design of the blast further shows his loyalty to his hometown. This tattoo reminds him of his roots and the individuals who have been there for him throughout his journey.

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Jayson has a large depiction of a house, a street sign reading “Archer” and the words “U. City” underneath one of his newest tattoos, which represents University City in western St. Louis. Many forget their background as they continue to touch the sky. However, Jayson’s feet are firmly planted on the ground, and he fondly remembers his hometown. With this tattoo, he shows his love for his place of origin and tributes to his upbringing.

“Lil’J” represents Tatum

Along with his hometown, Tatum aimed to represent his childhood with inkwork. With St Louis on the left arm, his right arm bears his nickname, “Lil’ J”. This tattoo depicts his past and the circumstances that have created who he is now. Along with his nickname, his left forearm depicts his initials, “J.T.”. While he dedicates his tattoos to other aspects of his life, he does not forget about himself.

The two tattoos show his personal history, his growth, and the connection he has with his younger self. Coming from a sporting family, he was surrounded by sports during his childhood, and he decided to carry his passion for his entire life.

“I Just Didn’t Quit” is a personal Moto

Jayson’s left calf bears the inscription “I JUST DIDN’T QUIT” in bold characters. While common, the quote shows the fire inside the St Louis native’s heart. His continuous efforts to grow personally and professionally show his pride in his identity and accomplishments. Furthermore, it shows the love and respect he has for himself as a person.

USA Today via Reuters

He also got a tattoo to commemorate his efforts to expand his professional life. A set of checkered flags sit beneath the statement, with the words “Hussle Man” tattooed below them. Fans have suggested that the tattoo is a tribute to the late rapper Nipsey Hussle.

Jayson Tatum knows he is a “Mama’s Boy”

The bond between a man and his mother shows a special kind of closeness. Tatum has “Mama’s Boy” tattooed on his right calf, representing his close relationship with his mother and her influence in his life. The tattoo pays respect to his mother and the love and support she has provided throughout his life. The tattoo depicts his mother, Brandy Cole, hugging him as a toddler.

For many, tattoos are just a form of art, but for Tatum, they are extremely personal and a reflection of self. With his many tattoos, he showed all that is important to him. Will we see an addition in the future?