It’s not often that a superstar who is just one win away from lifting the NBA Championship has to face criticism from the fans and media. However, that has been the case for Jayson Tatum in this series against Dallas. Despite going up 3-0 last night, many believe that JT has not played up to his potential and is being carried by his teammates. Amid the criticism that even left his mother Brandy Cole in distress, Tatum finds solace in his ultimate support system, which is his son Deuce, to keep him focused on what’s important.

During an exclusive interview with Bleacher Report after yesterday’s win, JT revealed how he has kept his head straight and overcome the negativity around him. “I have a good support system. You see my mom all the time. My family comes to all the games, and then there’s my son, Deuce. Anybody who has kids understands that no matter if you’re having a bad day or bad day at the job, when I see him, he doesn’t care about none of this s**t. He just wants to hang out with Dad.”

For sure, Jayson is always reminded that he is surrounded by people who love him. He tries to avoid reading the negative things written about him, however, his mother Brandy keeps up to date with everything on the internet. She was reportedly “very upset” about the unnecessary chatter, as Bill Simmons’ father revealed in their pod. Meanwhile, JT’s six-year-old son, Deuce, frequently accompanies his father during warmups or after every game. After the Celtics won the first game against Dallas, Deuce was the first to congratulate JT with a giant and wholesome hug! That’s quite the wholesome motivation for staying focused on winning, isn’t it?

Jayson Tatum’s primary goal is to win a Championship

Yes, it would be an unforgettable feeling for Jayson if he won the Finals MVP. However, with one more win to capture before being able to call themselves Champions, Tatum is focused on the bigger picture instead. “Finals MVP or whatever, a champion is a champion. That’s the goal.” Having been a part of this team all his career, Tatum has developed an affection and brotherhood for all his teammates. “I want for my teammates what I want for myself. I want everybody to shine. There’s enough attention for all of us.”

But the way this series has gone so far, it looks like Jaylen Brown might sneak away with the Finals MVP trophy just like he did in the East Finals. That doesn’t bother Tatum one bit. Eventually, it’s him and his team that will pop the champagne at the end of the season. And with his son and mother present to enjoy the festivities, all the negativity will be forgotten once Jayson can enjoy his first NBA title!

Before you go, do not forget to check out what Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, has to say about Caitlin Clark’s meteoric rise to stardom. Keep checking this space for more such updates.