Jayson Tatum is considered a likely top 5-6 pick for the 2017 NBA draft. After a standout freshman season at Duke, he is considered one of the most NBA ready prospects and top go-to scoeres in this year’s draft. We got a chance to sit down with Tatum at the McDonald’s game and again a few weeks later at the 2016 Nike Hoop Summit (Tatum had 14 pts in a 34 point blowout) to discuss his game and future.
He came accross as a very humble and respectful kid who took time with each question and gave very thoughtful responses. Here’s what he had to say. [Interview is over a year old, but contains some interesting responses nonetheless].
NBADraft.net: You’ve been here for a few days now, how has the event been and practicing with your teammates?
Jayson Tatum: It’s been going pretty good. There’s a lot of talent out here. It’s my fourth year here at USA basketball, so I always enjoy putting on this jersey and competing and getting on with the coaches.
NBADraft.net: What makes this event special as opposed to other showcase events?
Jayson Tatum: Mainly because you’re representing your country. That’s the biggest honor in basketball. To have these letters accross your chest, it means a lot.
NBADraft.net: How important is it to get the win?
Jayson Tatum: Extremely important. Me, Harry (Giles), Josh (Jackson), and Terrence Ferguson. We’ve all been playing together for four years with USA basketball, and we’ve never lost. So we want to keep the tradition going. I think the last couple years they lost this game, soi we want to get back on track.
NBADraft.net: For anybody that may not have seen you play before, how do you describe your game?
Jayson Tatum: Versatile. I have the ability to score from almost any position on the floor. I’m a difficult assignment due to me ability to score.
NBADraft.net: Do you see yourself being a one and done?
Jayson Tatum: I hope so. I feel that if I play well enough, I will be able to be a wone and done.
NBADraft.net: Should players be allowed to go straight out of high school?
Jayson Tatum: If they’re capable. I think there are guys that have that ability.
NBADraft.net: Who do you consider the toughest player at this event?
Jayson Tatum: That’s a tough one. Everybody is out here for a reason.
NBADraft.net: Who’s your biggest role model?
Jayson Tatum: Basketball player?
NBADraft.net: In life?
Jayson Tatum: My parents and especially my Mom. I really admire her. They had me when they were 19. They sacrificed a lot for me.
NBADraft.net: What did you think of the NCAA tournament?
Jayson Tatum: I was upset that Duke lost, you know in the Sweet Sixteen. But the championship game was pretty awesome. Especially the (Villanova) final shot.
NBADraft.net: So you were rooting for the Tar Heels?
Jayson Tatum: I actually didn’t really have a preference.
NBADraft.net: You wouldn’t have cared if the Tar Heels had won?
Jayson Tatum: No.
NBADraft.net: What was the most important criteria for you in choosing Duke?
Jayson Tatum: Probably just being comforatable with the coaching staff. When I made my visit and saw the campus and the facilities and met the guys and the students, it was just a great environment.
NBADraft.net: Talk about your interests outside of basektball.
Jayson Tatum: I really just like to chill. Go to the movies. Hang out with my friends for the most part
NBADraft.net: What’s the best movie you’ve seen in the past year?
Jayson Tatum: Creed.
NBADraft.net: Wish you the best of luck.
Jayson Tatum: Thank you.
