NBA All-Star Jayson Tatum and Grammy-winning R&B artist Ella Mai have been quietly making headlines for years—not just for their individual careers but for their close and carefully guarded relationship. Though the couple has never officially confirmed their romance, fans and media alike have pieced together a compelling story that suggests the two have been an item since 2020. As of 2025, Tatum is 26 years old and one of the NBA’s brightest stars, while Mai, 29, continues to dominate the R&B charts with her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics.
A Love Story Behind the Spotlight
Rumors of a romance between Tatum and Mai first surfaced in late 2020, when eagle-eyed fans noticed similarities in their social media posts—most notably, a livestream by Mai in what appeared to be Tatum’s home. The subtle clues began to snowball, with the pair being spotted at various events over the following years. Their first notable public appearance came in July 2022 at Michael Rubin’s Fourth of July White Party, where they were filmed in matching all-white outfits, mingling with celebrities like Drake, Kendall Jenner, and James Harden.
Despite the growing speculation, both Tatum and Mai have remained tight-lipped. During a 2022 appearance on The Breakfast Club, Mai playfully dodged questions about her dating life, saying, “I’m a basketball fan definitely, but you know I’m not one to talk about my dating life.”
Even so, the sightings haven’t stopped. From attending the wedding of Marcus Smart in 2023 to celebrating Ella’s birthday together in New York, the duo has become a frequent yet low-key fixture on the celebrity couple radar.
Ella Mai: An R&B Star with Global Reach
Ella Mai, born on November 3, 1994, in London, England, first gained attention on The X Factor UK before rising to fame with her 2018 breakout single “Boo’d Up.” The track not only earned her critical acclaim but also brought home the Grammy Award for Best R&B Song in 2019. With hits like “Trip” and albums such as Heart On My Sleeve, Ella has cemented herself as one of the genre’s most recognizable voices.
She often describes herself as a “lover girl,” emphasizing her passion for writing emotional love songs. “My favorite thing to do is make a love song,” she said in a 2022 interview with Okayplayer. This sentiment, along with her carefully curated public image, aligns well with Tatum’s reserved demeanor—adding to the allure of their speculated relationship.
Supportive Moments and Public Sightings
Over the past four years, Ella Mai has been seen supporting Tatum at major milestones. She was spotted courtside at TD Garden during the Boston Celtics’ NBA Finals win in June 2024 and was later seen cheering for him at the 2024 Paris Olympics. In a now-viral clip, she appeared to be holding a newborn, sparking speculation about a possible child together—though nothing has been officially confirmed.
Their appearance at Marcus Smart’s wedding in September 2023 was particularly memorable. The couple, dressed in coordinating green outfits, were seen laughing, dancing, and singing along to “Boo’d Up” at the reception. Later, during Ella’s 29th birthday celebration, Jayson joined in a game of musical chairs—providing a rare glimpse into their playful side.
A Bond Beyond the Romance: Ella Mai and Deuce
Tatum’s son, Jayson Christopher Tatum Jr., better known as Deuce, is one of the NBA’s most popular “mini-celebrities.” Born when Tatum was just 19, Deuce is often seen courtside, traveling with his dad and even appearing in the Netflix docuseries Starting 5.
It seems Ella Mai has developed a close bond with Deuce as well. In April 2023, the young boy attended her Boston House of Blues concert during her Heart On My Sleeve tour. A fan-captured moment showed Ella waving at Deuce from the stage—a sweet gesture that hinted at the depth of their blended family dynamic.
Jayson Tatum: The Rising NBA Superstar
Drafted third overall in 2017, Tatum has blossomed into one of the NBA’s most dynamic scorers. By 2025, he is the face of the Boston Celtics, a multiple-time All-Star, and a key figure in Team USA’s gold medal-winning roster at the Paris Olympics. With endorsements, accolades, and consistent playoff success, Tatum has firmly established himself as a modern-day icon in the league.
His private nature has earned him a reputation as a grounded and focused athlete, in stark contrast to the often drama-filled world of celebrity relationships. This likely plays a role in why he and Ella have kept their love story out of the tabloids.
Are They Married?
As of now, Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai are not officially married, and neither has commented on any engagement rumors. However, their steady appearances together over the past four years, the growing closeness with Deuce, and their shared milestones suggest a strong and committed relationship that continues to flourish in private.
Final Thoughts
Though Jayson Tatum and Ella Mai have never confirmed their relationship publicly, the evidence of their deep connection is undeniable. From concerts to NBA Finals celebrations, the Grammy winner and NBA superstar seem to have found common ground in their busy lives. Their bond, built on mutual respect, privacy, and support, is a refreshing reminder that love—especially in the public eye—doesn’t always need a spotlight to thrive.
Whether or not they choose to make things official in the future, one thing is clear: together, Tatum and Mai are a power couple, balancing elite careers with a shared sense of purpose, family, and fun.