Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is a father to two sons: Jayson "Deuce" Christopher Tatum Jr., born in 2017 with his ex-partner Toriah Lachell, and a second son named Dylan, born in 2024 with Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Ella Mai. While Deuce has become a fixture courtside at NBA arenas across the league, the family keeps a balanced approach between high-profile athletic careers and private parenting.
Understanding the lives of Jayson Tatum's children requires looking past viral TikTok clips and media soundbites. From Deuce's early days growing up inside the Celtics locker room to how the family manages privacy for their younger son, here is an in-depth look at Tatum's parenting journey.
Who Is Jayson "Deuce" Tatum?
Born on December 6, 2017, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr.—universally known as Deuce—arrived just months after his father was selected third overall by the Boston Celtics in the NBA Draft. Because Deuce grew up alongside his father's rise to superstardom, he quickly evolved into an honorary member of the franchise.
You'll regularly spot Deuce courtside at TD Garden, shooting hoops on the parquet floor after games, or interacting with players and coaching staff. For fans, Deuce isn't just a celebrity child; he represents a wholesome constant in modern sports culture. His close relationship with former Celtics teammate Marcus Smart and his feature appearances in sports docuseries like Netflix's Starting 5 cement his status as a beloved figure among basketball enthusiasts.
Jayson Tatum's Second Son: Dylan
In August 2024, Jayson Tatum and Grammy-winning artist Ella Mai welcomed their first child together, a son named Dylan. Unlike Deuce, whose early life was documented extensively in the public eye from infancy, Dylan's arrival was kept much more private.
Ella Mai and Jayson Tatum have maintained a deliberate boundary regarding their relationship and family life. While neither posted formal birth announcements on social media, eagle-eyed fans discovered the nod to Dylan when Tatum updated his custom game sneakers to feature both "Deuce" and "Dylan" written on the sides. Ella Mai later shared in interviews that motherhood has been an incredible experience, noting that her little one has shown early signs of following her musical inclinations.
Co-Parenting and Family Dynamics
Balancing an grueling NBA schedule—including deep playoff runs, international competition with USA Basketball, and relentless travel—presents a unique challenge for any professional athlete. Tatum has frequently credited his own mother, Brandy Cole, and his supportive family structure for helping him maintain stability.
- Shared Parenting: Both Toriah Lachell and Ella Mai maintain active, dedicated roles in raising their respective sons while navigating the complexities of public scrutiny.
- Support Systems: Grandparents play an active role, ensuring that both Deuce and Dylan experience grounded upbringings despite their father's global fame.
- Athletic Integration: Tatum often notes that being a young father forced him to mature rapidly, providing a stabilizing mental anchor away from the pressures of professional sports.
Common Misconceptions About Jayson Tatum's Family
Internet rumors often blur the lines between celebrity gossip and verified facts. Clearing up these points helps paint an accurate picture:
- Misconception: Deuce is an only child.
- Reality: Deuce has a younger brother, Dylan, born in 2024.
- Misconception: Tatum shares his family life equally across all social media platforms.
- Reality: While Deuce enjoys a public presence at games, Dylan's upbringing is kept private by both Tatum and Ella Mai.
- Misconception: Deuce plays organized youth basketball leagues.
- Reality: While he practices endlessly on NBA floors with his dad, he is still a child focused primarily on school and regular childhood activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Deuce Tatum?
Deuce Tatum was born on December 6, 2017, making him 8 years old.
Who are the mothers of Jayson Tatum's children?
Jayson's oldest son, Deuce, has mother Toriah Lachell. His second son, Dylan, has mother Grammy-winning singer Ella Mai.
Does Deuce Tatum attend every Boston Celtics game?
While he attends many home games at TD Garden and high-profile matchups, his school schedule and daily routine take priority over constant travel.
Where can I see Jayson Tatum's kids in media?
Deuce features prominently in NBA broadcasts, social media clips, and athletic documentaries like Netflix's Starting 5, whereas Dylan's privacy is strictly maintained by his parents.
