Jayson Tatum reveals heartbreaking loss of his grandmother as he shares emotional tribute

It has been a busy year for Boston Celtics All-Star Jayson Tatum. The 26-year-old NBA star went from MVP candidate to NBA champion to Olympic gold medal winner in a 12-month span. Off the court, though, Tatum and his family received tragic news with the loss of his grandmother.

On Monday, Tatum shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram story. The St. Louis native posted an image of his grandmother, Mae Bell Cole, and added a beautiful message.

"Rest up Grandma," wrote Tatum followed by a praying hands and heart emojis.

Jayson Tatum shares heartwarming message on social media after his grandmother passes away. Photo Credit: Jayson Tatum's IG account

According to the image, Tatum's grandmother was born on May 20, 1939 and breathed her last on Oct. 5, at the age of 85.

Tatum is coming off an exceptional season, guding the Boston Celtics to a record 18th championship. He will consider himself lucky that his grandmother saw him achieve the special feat.

Since making his debut in the NBA in 2017, Tatum has become one of the game's elite players. The former Duke University star is a five-time All-Star and has been selected to the All-NBA First Team thrice.

The Celtics begin their regular season against the New York Knicks on Oct. 22. That should provide Tatum some additional time to be with his family during this difficult period.

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Jayson Tatum's mother was upset about son's lack of minutes this summer at Olympic Games

United States guards Jayson Tatum, Stephen Curry, Devin Booker and assistant coach Tyronn Lue during the Paris 2024 Olympic Summer Games. Photo Credit: Imagn

Jayson Tatum has a close relationship with his family members, especially his mother, Brandy Cole-Barnes, who had Jayson when she was still in college and raised him as a single mother in St. Louis.

This summer, Tatum was selected to be a part of the USA Men's National Team that competed at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Althought Team USA went on to win the gold medal, Tatum saw limited minutes under coach Steve Kerr, leading to a candid social media post from his mother.

After Tatum didn't make an appearance against Serbia in the semifinals, there was speculation that he might have suffered an injury. His mother was quick to refute any rumors about injuries, responding to a post from long-time ESPN basketball analyst Dick Vitale:

"No he not. But if you find out what’s going on please let me know - unacceptable and makes NO SENSE."

Brandy was upset by her son not seeing any game time during the Olympic semifinals and came out in defense of her son.