Jayson Tatum added to his ever-growing list of clutch buckets on Tuesday after lifting the Boston Celtics past the Brooklyn Nets in overtime, 125-124, with a walk-off jumper.
Tatum dribbled to his spot near the free-throw line and pulled up over Keon Ellis, draining the cold-blooded basket as time expired, much to the jubilation of TD Garden. Tatum finished with a game-high 40 points on top of five rebounds and eight assists.
The Celtics improved to 3-1, while the Nets fell to 0-4.
According to NBA Stat, the 28-year-old Tatum has been quite reliable in clutch situations, shooting at 38.7%.
“Since 1996-97, no other player has a higher field goal percentage on shots to tie or take the lead in the final 24 seconds of a game than Jayson Tatum (minimum 60 field goal attempts),” read the post on Bluesky.
Jayson Tatum just hit another game-winner. Since 1996-97, no other player has a higher FG% on shots to tie or take the lead in the final 24 seconds of a game. (min 60 FGA)(via ItsGeorgeyy)#NBA
Joining Tatum in the top five are Dirk Nowitzki, Tim Duncan, Rudy Gay, and Kyrie Irving.
Tatum is ahead of other active players widely considered to be clutch performers, including Damian Lillard, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, DeMar DeRozan, and LeBron James.
Article Continues BelowAgainst the Nets, the six-time All-Star scored eight points in the fourth quarter and added six points in overtime.
Tatum is hoping to stay healthy after missing the majority of last season due to an Achilles injury. The Celtics are aiming for redemption after blowing a 3-1 lead to the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round of the playoffs in April.
Tatum is averaging 28.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 8.0 assists in 36.3 minutes.
The Celtics will host the Chicago Bulls on Friday.