Dive deep into the meticulously guarded romance of basketball icon Jayson Tatum and R&B sensation Ella Mai, exploring their journey as a couple, co-parents, and the ongoing whispers of a secret marriage.
In the vibrant intersection of professional basketball and Grammy-winning music, Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai have forged a relationship that has captivated fans and media alike, largely due to its carefully maintained privacy. As a star forward for the Boston Celtics and a celebrated British singer-songwriter, their individual careers place them firmly in the public eye, yet their personal lives together remain largely behind closed doors.
This commitment to privacy has only fueled public fascination, turning every subtle hint—from social media glimpses to song lyrics—into a treasure hunt for dedicated fans. While they rarely discuss their romance openly, the narrative of their connection is rich with mutual support, shared family joys, and the ongoing speculation about their relationship status.
Who is Jayson Tatum?
Jayson Christopher Tatum Sr., born on March 3, 1998, in St. Louis, Missouri, has quickly become one of the most recognizable and successful players in the NBA. A McDonald’s All-American in high school, Tatum played college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils before being drafted by the Boston Celtics as the third overall pick in 2017.
His impressive career includes multiple NBA All-Star selections, being named the NBA Eastern Conference Finals Most Valuable Player in 2022, and leading the Celtics to an NBA title in 2024. Beyond the NBA, Tatum also secured a gold medal with the 2020 U.S. Olympic team in Tokyo. He is also known for his endorsements and partnerships with major brands like Jordan Brand, Subway, and Gatorade.
Who is Ella Mai?
Born on November 3, 1994, in London, England, Ella Mai is a celebrated British R&B singer and songwriter. Her musical journey began at the British and Irish Modern Music Institute in 2014, where she initially auditioned as part of a trio for The X Factor‘s 11th season. Her solo career took off after she uploaded a four-track EP, Troubled, to SoundCloud in 2015, which caught the attention of American record producer Mustard, leading to her signing with 10 Summers Records.
Mai’s breakout moment arrived with her self-titled album in 2018, featuring the hit song “Boo’d Up.” This track not only dominated the charts but also earned her a prestigious Grammy Award for Best R&B Song in 2019. She continued her success by winning three 2019 Billboard Music Awards for Top R&B Song, Top R&B Female Artist, and Top R&B Artist. Her second studio album, Heart on My Sleeve, was released in 2022, and her 2024 EP 3 included the single “Little Things,” which fans believe offers a peek into her relationship with Tatum.
Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai’s Relationship Timeline
The relationship between Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai is believed to have begun around 2019-2020. Despite their high profiles, they have consistently chosen to keep the details of their romance under wraps. However, diligent fans and media have pieced together a timeline from various subtle clues and rare public appearances:
- 2019: Early Connections
- Tatum reportedly flew to Baltimore to watch Mai perform in concert after a Celtics game.
- Mai was spotted attending a Celtics-Knicks game at Madison Square Garden shortly thereafter.
- 2020: Social Media Hints
- Fans noticed that Mai’s Instagram livestream backdrop resembled Tatum’s home, sparking initial dating rumors.
- Tatum’s participation in a TikTok trend in 2020 also offered glimpses into his private space.
- 2022: First Public Appearance
- The couple made their first notable public appearance together at billionaire Michael Rubin’s exclusive 4th of July White Party in the Hamptons.
- During promotions for her album, Heart on My Sleeve, Mai famously dodged questions about her relationship with Tatum during an interview on The Breakfast Club, stating, “I’m not one to talk about my dating life.”
- 2024: Expanding the Family and Subtle Confirmations
- Mai gave birth to their son, Dylan, in August 2024. This significant milestone was subtly confirmed by Tatum, who wrote “Deuce <3 Dylan” on his sneakers during a 2024 Celtics game, referencing his two sons. He also has tattoos of both “Dylan” and “Deuce” on his arms.
- Mai’s 2024 EP 3 featured the single “Little Things,” widely interpreted by fans as an ode to her relationship with Tatum, detailing appreciation for small, thoughtful gestures.
- Mai was also seen supporting Tatum at the Olympics in Paris in August 2024, where an eagle-eyed fan spotted her holding an infant during a photoshoot, further confirming their new addition.
- A commercial for Amica Insurance featured Tatum seemingly confirming the birth of his second child, with the spot ending with three shoes lined up in size order, believed to be a nod to his two sons, as reported by Page Six.
Are Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai Married?
Despite persistent fan theories and online chatter, Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai have never publicly confirmed or denied marriage rumors. Neither star has been spotted wearing a wedding ring, and no public records of a legal wedding have surfaced. Their staunch commitment to privacy extends to all aspects of their relationship, including whether they have officially tied the knot.
Fans eager for confirmation often scrutinize their social media for clues, but the couple has proven adept at keeping such significant life events out of the public domain. For now, they remain a committed couple and co-parents, successfully navigating their high-profile careers while maintaining a strong, private bond.
Jayson Tatum’s Children and Co-Parenting
Jayson Tatum is a father to two sons. His eldest, Jayson “Deuce” Christopher Tatum Jr., was born on December 6, 2017, and he shares him with his high school girlfriend, Toriah Lachell. Tatum and Lachell are no longer together but maintain an amicable co-parenting relationship for Deuce, who is a well-known presence at Boston Celtics games and a fan favorite, as highlighted by NBC Sports Boston.
His second son, Dylan, was born in August 2024 with Ella Mai. Tatum has subtly acknowledged Dylan’s birth, most notably by writing “Deuce <3 Dylan” on his sneakers during a Celtics game. This small gesture, along with tattoos of both his sons’ names on his arms, provides a rare glimpse into Tatum’s personal life and his deep affection for his children.
The Impact of Privacy in a High-Profile Relationship
For Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai, privacy isn’t just a preference; it’s a foundational element of their relationship. As figures constantly in the spotlight, their choice to keep much of their personal life away from public scrutiny reflects a deliberate effort to protect their bond and maintain a sense of normalcy. This approach allows them to focus on building a strong relationship without the added pressures and speculations that often accompany celebrity romances.
While they share carefully curated moments—like family outings or supportive gestures—these brief glimpses are enough to satisfy fans while preserving their personal space. This balance demonstrates a mature understanding of their public roles versus their private commitment, setting an example for how modern high-profile couples can thrive.
Future Aspirations and Continued Support
The future for Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai appears bright, grounded in shared values, mutual ambition, and a strong support system. Both individuals are at the peak of their careers, constantly inspiring each other to achieve greater heights. Tatum’s recent promise of “another parade” for Celtics fans after recovering from an Achilles injury highlights his drive, a trait likely mirrored and supported by Mai.
Their ability to communicate openly, combined with a dedication to personal and shared growth, suggests a strong foundation for a lasting relationship. As they continue to balance demanding careers with the joys of parenthood, their story remains a compelling example of success both on and off the court and stage.
Ella Mai’s Past Relationships
Before her relationship with Jayson Tatum, Ella Mai was linked to another prominent basketball player, John Wall. Their relationship reportedly garnered attention in 2017-2018, with fans spotting them together at various NBA games. However, this dalliance was short-lived, concluding before her connection with Tatum began.
Mai has generally maintained a private stance on her dating life, and details surrounding her past relationships, including with Wall, remain largely speculative and unconfirmed by the artist herself.
Final Thoughts
The relationship between Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai is a testament to the power of mutual support, commitment, and a shared desire for privacy in the spotlight. While they may not offer frequent public declarations, their journey as a couple and co-parents, marked by subtle gestures and undeniable success, continues to inspire and resonate with fans.
Their story underscores the importance of prioritizing personal happiness and family values, even amidst the intense scrutiny that comes with being two of the most dynamic figures in sports and music today.
