Grant Williams Offers Rehab Advice to Jayson Tatum Following Achilles Injury
Boston, MA – Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum is facing a significant challenge as he recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon. The lengthy rehabilitation process requires not only physical dedication but also emotional resilience. Fortunately, Tatum has found support from an unexpected source: former Celtics teammate Grant Williams.
Williams, who suffered an ACL tear last November, understands the emotional and physical toll of a major injury. He recently shared his experience and advice with Tatum, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the emotional impact of such a setback. “I told him, ‘Listen, you’re going to be emotional. It’s OK,’” Williams shared on the Off The Record podcast. “It doesn’t make you less of a man to be emotional about it, to acknowledge what you’re going through freaking sucks. But, at the same time, we both know your work ethic and your progress. You’re going to come back better than you were before. I’m excited to see his journey and his recovery.”
The two players’ paths have intertwined in unexpected ways. Williams, drafted 22nd overall in 2019, played four seasons with the Celtics before signing with the Dallas Mavericks. A short stint in Dallas led to a trade to his hometown Charlotte Hornets, where he’s currently playing. His career has been punctuated by injury, most notably the ACL tear that sidelined him for much of last season.
Despite a tense moment last season when Williams and Tatum clashed on the court, the two players have evidently moved past the incident. Williams’s recent meeting with Tatum underscores their mutual respect and willingness to support each other through challenging times.
Tatum’s injury is expected to sideline him for most, if not all, of the upcoming season. This necessitates a period of retooling for the Celtics. Williams, while still recovering from his own injury, is optimistic about his own return to the court. The timeline for his full recovery remains uncertain, but he’s aiming to be ready for training camp.
Williams’s support extends beyond mere words. He’s offered himself as a resource for Tatum, emphasizing his availability for phone calls or any other form of support. “I’m happy that he’s sharing it with his fans and people that care about him because he has a lot of people and a lot of supports because of the person and human being that he is,” Williams stated. “I’m excited for his progress and his recovery. And I’m here as a resource for him as I told him in-person. Whatever he needs, even if it’s a phone call for two or three minutes, I’m here for him.” This gesture of support highlights the camaraderie within the basketball community and the shared understanding of the challenges faced during injury recovery.
