Returning to training less than five months after Achilles rupture! Durant calls Tatum insane, Stevens responds to early comeback

On September 29 Beijing time, Celtics star Tatum shared a basketball training video. It has been less than five months since he suffered a severe Achilles tendon rupture. In the video, Tatum demonstrated full-court running, retreat defense, and lateral movements combined with dribbling. Although he joked about feeling “a bit rusty,” his words revealed deep gratitude for being back on the court training.

“It’s been a long journey,” Tatum said in the video, “It’s been 19 and a half weeks since the injury, but I’ve always said brighter days are ahead. There are many things to look forward to. I just finished my third workout and finally returned to the court.”

“I just want everyone to know, guys, I’m really thankful for all your love and support. This has been a long road, but I’ve been giving my all to recover and get healthy — obviously out of love for basketball and to support my fans and the whole team. So, I really appreciate everyone’s support.”

Durant was clearly amazed by Tatum’s recovery speed; he reposted and responded, “That’s crazy, keep it up, JT (Tatum)!”

Celtics’ basketball operations president Stevens revealed that Tatum has been “extremely diligent” throughout his Achilles recovery. Although Tatum has expressed a desire to return this season, the team has not set a specific timetable for the six-time All-Star’s comeback. Tatum’s injury occurred in May during the Celtics’ Game 4 loss to the New York Knicks in the second round of the playoffs, where he suffered the Achilles tear.

“My first, second, third, and fourth priorities are all to ensure Tatum fully recovers and regains complete health,” Stevens said. “Currently, his rehabilitation is progressing very well.”

Stevens also mentioned that whether during mid-summer when other players were absent or over the past month and a half when many young players returned to training, Tatum has “led by example and set an excellent leadership standard for everyone on the team.”

“We highly value this,” Stevens stated. “We know he’s eager to get back on the court, and he will be the key decision-maker regarding his return timing. However, when the final decision is made, many people will be involved — including the staff who work with him daily on recovery and those crucial to him. So, we are on the right track now, and the most important thing is to ensure Tatum returns fully healthy.”