Celtics Star Jayson Tatum Reports Record Strength Gains During Achilles Recovery
Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum says his body is “as strong as it’s ever been,” a surprising benefit stemming from his rehabilitation following a torn Achilles tendon.The six-time All-Star revealed the unexpected positive advancement during an appearance on Sports Seriously, emphasizing a focused strength program has yielded remarkable results.
Tatum, 27, sustained the injury in Game 4 of the 2025 Eastern Conference Semifinals against the New York Knicks, initially fearing the impact on his career. However, 19 weeks of dedicated rehab-avoiding running and basketball while prioritizing weight training-have left him feeling physically superior to his condition in years. “I’ve went 19 weeks, I haven’t put any stress on my legs by running or playing basketball. I’ve really been in the weight room six days a week, working on my core, working on my legs, quads, hamstrings, and all that,” Tatum explained. “I’m injured, but ironically, the rest of my body is as strong as it’s ever been. So, I see a world in which I come back and it’s like, ‘Yo, my body has never felt this good probably as I was like 19 or something like that.'”
Prior to the injury, Tatum averaged 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 6.0 assists during the 2024-25 season. His surgeon has lauded the progress of his recovery, raising cautious optimism about a potential return during the 2025-26 season. Despite the encouraging signs, Tatum remains committed to a careful return. “If I feel great,we’ll see me out there on the court,” he said. “But I’m going to do it the right way.”
Jayson Tatum is back hooping already.
What in the world. (h/t @LUJBMedia)pic.twitter.com/D7keduP09X
– Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) September 28,2025
