Celtics' Jayson Tatum Reacts to Cheers After Game 1 Win Over 76ers
Jayson Tatum had an outstanding performance in Game 1 of the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday. Tatum finished the game with 25 points, 11 rebounds, seven assists and two steals, leading the Celtics to a dominant 123-91 win. It was smart for the former Duke star and the team to take over early in the first-round series.
Tatum had just returned from a devastating torn Achilles injury, which he suffered in last year's playoffs. No one thought he'd be able to return to action this early. Additionally, it seems as if he did not lose a step and has played like he was never injured.
Jayson Tatum Appreciates the Boston Crowd
Early in the second half, fans at the TD Garden knew that the Celtics would end the game with a 1-0 lead in the series. Even Joe Mazzulla, the head coach, was aware of it and made the wise decision to sit Tatum and the other players. The six-time All-Star received cheers from the home fans as he made his way to the bench as a way to congratulate him for returning.
After the contest, the five-time All-NBA forward showed appreciation for the fans.
"We have a tremendous crowd, and you know, obviously missing 60-some odd games, you know, I miss playing in front of our home crowd and, just the opportunity again to play, play here in the playoffs is special and, you know, something I'll never take for granted," Tatum said.
Jayson Tatum gives Celtics fan nothing but love after Game 1:
— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) April 19, 2026
"We have a tremendous crowd, and you know, obviously missing 60 some odd games, you know, I miss playing in front of our home crowd and, just the opportunity again to play, play here in the playoffs is special and,… pic.twitter.com/0vbkwtrltw
Tatum's team was happy to have him back late in the regular season. His postseason experience could play a significant role in their reaching their championship goals. His teammate, Sam Hauser, was impressed with how he worked hard to return to the lineup.
"It's pretty nuts, kind of how far he's come and how fast he's gotten back. It just shows how determined and committed he was to his rehab and wanting to get back. The belief he had in us to -- the chance we have, hopefully make a deep run. It's pretty impressive what he's doing, and he never takes a day for granted."
Sam Hauser on Jayson Tatum's return:
— Celtics on CLNS (@CelticsCLNS) April 19, 2026
"It's pretty nuts, kind of how far he's come and how fast he's gotten back. It just shows how determined and committed he was to his rehab and one and wanting to get back… It's pretty impressive what he's doing and he never takes a day for… pic.twitter.com/HBUgqNGEeh
Before the start of the 2025-26 season, the Celtics were not viewed as a championship team. Tatum was injured, and the organization had to move on from most of its key players via free agency and trades. However, Boston remained competitive and finished the season as the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference.
With Tatum's return, the Celtics have become an even tougher team.
Related: Celtics' Jayson Tatum Nearing Rare NBA Postseason Scoring Milestone
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This story was originally published April 19, 2026 at 8:57 PM.