The story behind Jayson Tatum's baby mother, Toriah Lachell, extends far beyond a simple celebrity relationship footnote. Long before Jayson Tatum became a perennial NBA All-Star and a cornerstone for the Boston Celtics, he and Toriah Lachell Mimms shared a high school romance in St. Louis, Missouri. When Lachell gave birth to their son, Jayson "Deuce" Christopher Tatum Jr., in December 2017, both parents were teenagers navigating an uncertain future. Today, Lachell has carved out an independent identity as a successful entrepreneur, a certified curly hair specialist, and the owner of a Boston-based salon, all while maintaining a cooperative co-parenting dynamic with the NBA star.
Understanding Toriah Lachell's path requires looking past the online gossip columns and exploring her actual background, her relocation to Massachusetts, her professional development in cosmetology, and how she manages life in the public eye alongside one of basketball's most recognizable sons.
High School Roots in St. Louis
Long before NBA arenas and sneaker endorsement deals entered the picture, Toriah Lachell grew up in the St. Louis area. Born on February 6, 2000, she attended McCluer North High School in Florissant, Missouri. During her adolescent years, her primary focus centered on athletics rather than fame. She spent years as an active multi-sport athlete, playing varsity soccer and softball.
Around the same period, Jayson Tatum attended Chaminade College Preparatory School, located nearby in St. Louis. The two high school sweethearts crossed paths through mutual circles and local youth sports connections. Their relationship blossomed during their teenage years, well before Tatum's single spectacular college season at Duke University and his subsequent entry into the 2017 NBA Draft.
In early 2017, as Tatum transitioned from college basketball standout to professional rookie, the young couple learned they were expecting their first child. On December 6, 2017, Lachell gave birth to Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., affectionately known to basketball fans worldwide as Deuce.
Relocating to Boston and Building a Career
Bringing a child into the world at age nineteen while one parent embarks on a high-pressure professional sports career presents massive hurdles. Shortly before Deuce's birth, Lachell made the pivotal decision to relocate from Missouri to the Boston area, ensuring that their newborn son could remain close to his father despite demanding NBA travel schedules.
Rather than relying solely on the periphery of professional sports culture, Lachell pursued her own vocational ambitions. She enrolled in a local Boston cosmetology program in 2017, throwing herself into professional training. Her interest in hair care stemmed from a personal desire to understand, embrace, and properly treat natural hair textures.
- Formal Training: Lachell completed rigorous certification tracks, including specialized curl education.
- Entrepreneurship: She transitioned from student to business owner, launching The Curl Bar Boston, a salon dedicated to textured and curly hair care.
- Independence: Building her own enterprise allowed her to control her schedule, manage her financial autonomy, and provide a stable environment for Deuce.
More details on professional athletic families and player support structures can be found through sports coverage by outlets like ESPN.
Co-Parenting Dynamics in the Public Eye
The romantic relationship between Tatum and Lachell concluded amicably shortly after Deuce's birth. Unlike many high-profile splits that play out through messy public disputes, both parents chose a quiet, respectful route. Neither publically aired grievances, focusing instead on raising their son.
Today, Deuce is a fixture courtside at TD Garden, famous for high-fiving Celtics players and stealing the spotlight during post-game press conferences. This wholesome father-son bond exists largely because both parents prioritized a healthy co-parenting infrastructure. Lachell maintains primary proximity in Massachusetts, allowing Deuce to split time seamlessly between his mother's care and his father's active schedule.
For broader context on how professional leagues manage family accommodations, the National Basketball Association provides regular insights into player life and community programs.
Common Misconceptions About Toriah Lachell
Because celebrity journalism often relies on speculation, several myths persist regarding Toriah Lachell's life and her relationship with Tatum. Clarifying these points helps paint an accurate picture:
- The Marriage Myth: Numerous online articles mistakenly refer to Lachell as Tatum's ex-wife. The couple was never married; they were high school sweethearts who separated shortly after welcoming their son.
- Not an Influencer First: While social media platforms feature her personal life and styling tutorials, Lachell built her primary identity around a brick-and-mortar trade—cosmetology and salon ownership.
- Private Personal Life: Lachell maintains strict boundaries regarding her dating life, choosing to keep the focus on her business, personal growth, and motherhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jayson Tatum and Toriah Lachell date?
They began dating during their teenage years while attending high school in St. Louis, Missouri, remaining together until shortly after the birth of their son in late 2017.
What is Toriah Lachell's profession?
She is a certified professional hairstylist and entrepreneur. She owns and operates The Curl Bar Boston, a salon specializing in textured and curly hair care.
How old is Deuce Tatum?
Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr. was born on December 6, 2017. He frequently attends Boston Celtics games alongside his father.
Are Jayson Tatum and Toriah Lachell still together?
No. They broke up shortly after Deuce was born, but they maintain a cooperative and positive co-parenting relationship.
