Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum will make his first appearance of the season Friday against the Dallas Mavericks, the team announced.
The 28-year-old hasn't suited up since rupturing his Achilles tendon last May in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference semifinal versus the New York Knicks.
Back by popular demand @jaytatum0 📸 pic.twitter.com/1qVJOyeEUm
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) March 6, 2026
The six-time All-Star previously expressed uncertainty if he would return this season, saying in late January that he "wants to get it right the first time, so it's just a lot to think about."
Tatum rejoins a Celtics team that has exceeded expectations in his absence. Boston enters Friday's contest with a 41-21 record, five games back of the conference-leading Detroit Pistons.
Jaylen Brown has stepped up with Tatum sidelined, posting career-best averages of 28.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game to earn his fifth All-Star selection.
