If there was any thought of Kyle Hamilton reviving his basketball career, Thursday's practice visitor, Jayson Tatum, put that ambition to rest.
Ahead of Sunday's tilt against the Steelers, the Boston Celtics superstar forward visited the Under Armour Performance Center. Tatum, who is recovering from an Achilles injury, was in town for the Celtics' road game against the Washington Wizards but made the trip up north to meet the team.
Hamilton, once an avid hooper, jokingly pitched the idea of the Celtics signing him to a 10-day contract to Tatum. But even with his 6-foot-4 frame and a strong basketball background, Hamilton knows Tatum is on another level.
"Just seeing a guy like that, it kind of puts the basketball dreams on the back burner," Hamilton said.
Defensive Coordinator Zach Orr was also in awe of Tatum's visit.
"It was neat to see him come out here. He's big like a 'Monstar' out there," Orr said.
Tatum met with many players, including outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, and cornerback Marlon Humphrey. The list also included quarterback Lamar Jackson, who had a previous interaction with the six-time NBA all-star.
When Tatum went down with his injury during last year's playoffs, Jackson sent him a signed jersey with the message, "Wishing you 100% recovery, champ." Tatum posted a photo of the gift on Instagram, writing "Love." Six months later, Jackson and Tatum caught up face-to-face in the Ravens' weight room.
Even before receiving the signed jersey, Tatum was a fan of Jackson.
"Lamar is unbelievable, obviously, in the real game, but in fantasy football too," Tatum said on an episode of the “New Heights” podcast earlier this year.
