The NBA’s Highest Paid Player is Giving Back: Jayson Tatum’s Mission to Educate Young Athletes on Financial Literacy

Tatum is using his platform to provide financial guidance to young athletes

Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum has made headlines recently with his record-breaking five-year, $315 million contract extension. However, it’s not just his impressive skills on the court that are making waves. Tatum is determined to use his platform to give back to the community, and has partnered with financial services company SoFi to provide financial literacy seminars to young athletes.

The seminars, which are part of Tatum’s Elite Camp, aim to educate young athletes on the importance of managing their finances and making smart financial decisions. This is particularly crucial for athletes who come into sudden wealth at a young age, and may not have the necessary knowledge or support to navigate their financial situation.

Tatum’s own experiences have driven his passion for financial literacy. Growing up, his mother, Brandy Cole, worked tirelessly to provide for him and his family, often going without so that Tatum could have the opportunities he needed to succeed. When Tatum turned pro at just 19, his mother became his unofficial financial advisor, insistence that he save his NBA money and live off endorsement deals. This frugal mindset has stayed with Tatum to this day, and he is determined to pass on this wisdom to others.

‘When you start to get money, it’s like you become a target,’ Tatum explains. ‘You’re a young kid with this newfound wealth, and people want to take advantage of that. Your ignorance or you being young, and you really got to surround yourself with the right people to help look out for you.’

Tatum’s mother, Brandy Cole, has been a huge influence on his financial decisions

Tatum’s mission is not just about providing financial guidance, but also about creating a safe space for young athletes to ask questions and learn from each other. He knows that not everyone will take heed of his advice, but he hopes that at least a few will be receptive and willing to learn.

‘Everybody’s not going to listen,’ Tatum acknowledges. ‘Some will think they’re too cool to ask questions. But you just hope you can get through to the ones that are receptive and are trying to learn and listen. And that’s all you can hope for.’

Young athletes attending Tatum’s financial literacy seminar

As the NBA’s highest paid player, Jayson Tatum is using his platform to make a real difference in the lives of young athletes. His commitment to financial literacy is just one example of his dedication to giving back, and we can expect to see more inspiring initiatives from him in the future.