Jayson Tatum and Paolo Banchero: Mentor Meets Protégé in Celtics-Magic Playoff Clash

Jayson Tatum and Paolo Banchero have forged an incredible off-court relationship, but they’ll be center stage on the court in the first round. 

When the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic tip off their first-round playoff series on Sunday, the spotlight will shine brightly on two players whose paths have been intertwined long before this postseason meeting.​

Jayson Tatum and Paolo Banchero share more than just All-Star talent; they share a bond rooted in their time at Duke University. Tatum, having established himself as a cornerstone for the Celtics, has been a mentor to Banchero, offering guidance and as the younger player navigated his early NBA years. Their relationship, built on mutual respect and shared experiences, adds a layer of depth to this playoff matchup.​

Tatum’s Leadership and Legacy

As the Celtics aim to defend their championship title, Tatum’s role as a leader is more crucial than ever. He has consistently demonstrated his ability to elevate his game in high-stakes situations, and his performance will be pivotal in setting the tone for the series. Tatum’s experience and poise under pressure are assets that the Celtics will rely on as they face a hungry Magic team.

Banchero has been following in Tatum’s footsteps for years. They wear the same signature shoe. They’ve trained together in the summers. And they share a unique connection through Celtics assistant Amile Jefferson—Banchero’s former coach at Duke and one of Tatum’s closest friends.

“Coming in, just because you’re a high pick, you’re probably going to have more stuff handed to you than the regular person,” Banchero told the Boston Sports Journal. “But you can’t take on that attitude. You have to work for everything… nobody’s going to hand you anything. You’ve got to go out and take it.”

Banchero has emerged as a key figure for the Magic, showcasing his versatility and scoring prowess throughout the season. His development has been influenced by his relationship with Tatum, but as the playoffs commence, Banchero is focused on carving out his own legacy. Facing his mentor in a playoff setting provides an opportunity for Banchero to demonstrate his growth and competitiveness on one of basketball’s biggest stages.

Paolo Banchero on facing Jayson Tatum in the playoffs:

“I’ve known Jayson since I was going into college — But you know, obviously now we’re competing and I think, the best way for me to show my respect is to give him my best effort and go at him as much as I can.“ pic.twitter.com/U87OkJKvi4

— Brett James (@thebrettjames1) April 16, 2025

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A Matchup Beyond the Court

While the series will be decided by team performance, the individual battle between Tatum and Banchero offers a compelling narrative. It’s a story of mentorship evolving into rivalry, of a seasoned star facing a rising talent he once guided. This dynamic adds an emotional and personal dimension to the games, captivating fans and adding intrigue to each encounter.

Tatum made history again this season, becoming the only Celtic besides Larry Bird to lead the team in total points, rebounds, assists, and steals in multiple seasons. But the personal accolades aren’t his focus.

“We not defending a championship—we won that last year,” Tatum told Celtics CLNS. “Can’t nobody take that from us.”

What he’s after now is legacy.

“It’s the playoffs,” Tatum added. “No friends out there. Nothing else matters except doing everything I can to help my team.”

Jayson Tatum on playing friend Paolo Banchero round 1:

“It’s the playoffs, no friends out there.” 👀pic.twitter.com/zWQEwGUcwB

— jb (@lockedupjb) April 16, 2025

He knows the threat Banchero poses—and respects it.

As the Celtics and Magic vie for advancement, the Tatum-Banchero storyline serves as a testament to the cyclical nature of sports, where today’s protégés become tomorrow’s challengers. Their shared history enriches the series, promising a blend of high-level basketball and heartfelt competition.