Beal excited to share same floor with Tatum in All-Star Game originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
Bradley Beal and Jayson Tatum have a history together. Just not an on-floor history.
Both are from St. Louis and both went to Chaminade College Prep. They’ve both spoken about their love for each other and how much they respect each other’s game.
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They’ve just always viewed each other as opponents on the court.
That will change Saturday, though, as they’ll both be starters on Team Durant for the NBA All-Star Game. Tatum is replacing Durant due to an injury.
“I’m excited about it. We’ve never been on the same team before, ever in life,” Beal said after the Wizards’ win over the Clippers. “I don’t even think in pickup we’ve been on the same team. It’s definitely a great feeling to share the same floor with him.”
Durant picked both Tatum and Beal, who just played a thriller against each other last Sunday. Tatum’s Celtics beat the Wizards by one while Beal hung 46 and Tatum scored 31 with the go-ahead shot.
"I’m pissed off he had to get going against us tonight," Beal said after the loss last Sunday. "He was struggling for a couple of games coming into tonight. He always picks up his energy when he plays me."
Beal will be in his third All-Star Game, while Tatum will make his second.
Now, Beal and Tatum will get the chance to see the floor at the same time once again. Only this time, they won’t be going head-to-head.
“I’m one of his biggest fans,” Beal said. “I’m proud of his growth, his maturity at a young age, he’s only 23 now. For him to be on the stage he’s at, at the time where his career is, it’s heartwarming for me. I’m just happy we’re able to share the floor together as starters, making a name for ourselves, our city and our families.”
