“Nothing Short of an Honor,” according to Jayson Tatum, who will wear Kobe Bryant’s No. 10 Team USA jersey at the Olympics

Alongside LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Kawhi Leonard, the star of the Boston Celtics will compete in the Olympics in Paris.

NBA champion Jayson Tatum will represent Team USA at the 2018 Summer Olympics by donning the No. 10 jersey, which Kobe Bryant wore in the 2008 and 2012 Games.

The 26-year-old Tatum stressed the importance of paying tribute to his late idol in Paris while speaking with media at USA Basketball’s training camp in Las Vegas.

Tatum, who won his first championship with the Boston Celtics in June, described taking up Bryant’s number 10 as “nothing short of an honor.”

“Everyone who even slightly knows me understands the impact he had on me as a child, motivating me to accomplish my objectives,” Tatum went on. Bryant passed away in a horrific helicopter crash in Calabasas, California, in 2020 along with his daughter Gianna and seven other people.

Tatum said, “It’s definitely not something I take for granted or lightly,” to end the media availability.

Tatum first got to know Bryant when he was younger, and basketball ultimately helped the two become close. Following his rookie campaign, Tatum spent the offseason working out with Bryant and seeking guidance from the five-time NBA champion.

In an emotional Instagram tribute following Bryant’s passing, Tatum referred to Bryant as “the reason I fell in love with” basketball.

“I grew up aspiring to be like you, and now that you’re my mentor, I’m incredibly grateful for everything you’ve done for me,” Tatum said, sharing that Bryant had previously said, “I didn’t have a backup plan; I put all my eggs in one basket, and I knew I was going to succeed.”

Tatum continued, “You inspired me and I am forever grateful more than you know!” after stating that Bryant’s remarks “stuck with me every day of my life.” Bean, I love you.”

Beyond the court, Tatum has discovered other methods to pay tribute to his late mentor.

Tatum disclosed on social media that he texted Bryant’s phone number prior to tip-off after playing in an Eastern Conference Finals game in 2022. Tatum sported a purple and gold sweatband with his Celtics suit in a reference to the Lakers’ colors.

Tatum said, “I got you today,” in the note.

Stars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, and Kawhi Leonard are among the athletes on Team USA alongside Tatum. The Games begin on July 26 in Paris, where the athletes will battle for gold.