Boston Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum is preparing for an important NBA season, but a recent promotional appearance in China gave fans an unexpected and slightly embarrassing moment.
After spending much of the previous season recovering from the Achilles injury he suffered during the 2025 playoffs, Tatum is now working toward a full return. The upcoming season could also bring increased responsibility for the Celtics star, making every step of his comeback a major storyline.
Before returning to NBA action, however, Tatum traveled to Shanghai as part of a Jordan Brand promotional tour. The trip included fan interactions and a basketball event, but one challenge quickly became the center of attention.
Jayson Tatum Misses 10 Straight Free Throws in Shanghai
With fans enthusiastically chanting his name, Tatum stepped to the free-throw line during the event. What happened next was something few people expected from a player of his caliber.
The six-time NBA All-Star missed his first 10 consecutive free-throw attempts. After several unsuccessful shots and a growing sense of anticipation from the crowd, Tatum finally made his 11th attempt.
The unusual sequence quickly became a memorable moment from the Shanghai appearance.
Tatum is normally a dependable scorer and rarely experiences such an extended struggle from the free-throw line. The promotional event was far different from a competitive NBA game, but missing 10 straight attempts was still an unexpected sight for basketball fans watching the event.
An Important Season Ahead for the Celtics Star
The free-throw incident comes as Tatum prepares for one of the most significant seasons of his career.
The 28-year-old is entering his 10th NBA season after a difficult period marked by recovery from his Achilles injury. Tatum returned to the court in March, approximately 10 months after suffering the injury, and gradually worked his way back into action.
Despite playing only 16 regular-season games during his return, Tatum produced solid numbers, averaging 21.8 points, 10 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game.
His playoff performances also offered encouraging signs. Tatum averaged 23.3 points, 10.7 rebounds and 6.8 assists, showing that he could still make a major impact despite the challenges of his recovery.
Boston Will Need Jayson Tatum to Lead
The Celtics managed to remain competitive while Tatum was recovering, but the team faces a different situation heading into the new season.
With Jaylen Brown now reportedly playing elsewhere, Tatum is expected to take on an even greater leadership role in Boston. The Celtics will rely heavily on their franchise player as they look to remain among the top teams in the Eastern Conference and make another serious playoff push.
The missed free throws in Shanghai may have provided fans with a funny and awkward moment, but they are unlikely to have any impact on expectations for Tatum’s upcoming season.
For Tatum, the real test will begin when NBA games return. If he can continue building on his recovery and return to his previous level, the Celtics star could once again become one of the most influential players in the league.
A promotional event may have produced a few jokes, but Boston and its fans will be focused on something much bigger: what Jayson Tatum can accomplish once the new NBA season begins.
