Home Basketball Jayson Tatum’s profound encounter with a boy fighting illness and the gift that transformed everything

Jayson Tatum’s profound encounter with a boy fighting illness and the gift that transformed everything

Basketball — 05/17/2024

Jayson Tatum and Xavier Goncalves have built a touching friendship since meeting a few months ago. Xavier, a 10-year-old kid, is facing a rare type of cancer. Tatum decided to pay a visit to his new friend Xavier at Christopher’s Haven, where he is receiving therapy alongside his mother. Their connection has grown stronger, and after scoring 51 points in the Celtics’ Game 7 win, Tatum asked Xavier into the locker room to celebrate. Tatum accepted the game ball from the Celtics’ owner, but he knew it meant more to Xavier.

Jayson Tatum met Xavier Goncalves for the first time a few months ago. Goncalves is battling a rare form of cancer. Tatum decided to visit his new friend at Christopher's Haven, where Xavier is staying with his mother, Samantha Bowditch, as he gets treatment. Their relationship blossomed, and Tatum had Goncalves in the locker room after Sunday's Game 7 win.

Inside the locker room, Xavier proudly showed the ball that Jayson Tatum had given him, as well as Tatum’s sweatbands and a sweatband signed by Kevin Garnett. It was an unforgettable day for Xavier, who couldn’t believe he was in the locker room with the Celtics players.

Jayson Tatum put his handprint on the wall — using green paint, of course — at Christopher's Haven, a home for young cancer patients and their families run by Mass General.Xavier Goncalves was just "one of the boys" hanging out in the locker room after the Celtics advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Xavier has undergone multiple surgeries and chemotherapy treatments to remove the malignant tumor in his eye. Tatum has been inspired by Xavier’s strength and courage, and he could relate to the shy nature of the young boy, as he was once a shy kid himself. Tatum invited Xavier to visit him at his own home, and they have spent time together, chatting and showing care for each other.

Xavier Goncalves ties the sneakers he received from his new friend, Jayson Tatum.

Since his cancer diagnosis, Xavier and his family have faced numerous challenges. Tatum empathized with Xavier’s family and made an effort to offer comfort and friendship during this terrible time. The NBA player has supported Xavier both on and off the floor, and their friendship has grown stronger. They hope to attend more games together in the future, creating cherished memories along the way.