The Boston Celtics are second in the Eastern Conference with Jaylen Brown leading the side. While there might be differences between Candace Parker and Tracy McGrady over Brown’s MVP credentials, every NBA fan is happy with the possible early return of Jayson Tatum. But for the megastar forward, WNBA’s Chiney Ogwumike has a special message.
Former WNBA All-Star highlighted that she had a similar injury and was lucky to have time to get back on the court for a competitive game. She advised Tatum to take utmost care while making the final decision to enter the G League.
Chiney Ogwumike’s Advice For Jayson Tatum
The 2024 NBA Champion was out of action for nearly nine months following a CACL tear during a playoff game in May. Though his recovery schedule outlined dates for the 2026-27 season, the star recently had a practice session with the Maine Celtics, Boston’s G League team. This hinted at his possible participation in G League games and a later return to the NBA sooner than expected.
Chiney Ogwumike, on an ESPN show, spoke about the situation, giving her example. She said, “I also had Achilles, and when I got to five-on-five, it only took me two weeks before I was cleared to actually play. But technically, I didn’t play because the season was later. And that’s why I say there is a big difference between playing and practice where everyone is a little bit more reserved and understand that you have an injury vs playing in a were people actually target.”
Former WNBA player Chiney Ogwumike on Tatum scrimmaging in the G-League:
— jb (@lockedupjb) February 11, 2026
“I did have an Achilles (injury) and when I got to 5-on-5, it only took me about 2 weeks until I was actually cleared to play”pic.twitter.com/NGkiKnEz1Y
She praised the Celtic star’s mindset and congratulated the medical staff for helping speed up his recovery, but warned him to stay alert and cautious, especially when the pressure is on, which can make it difficult.
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As per his practice reports, the 27-year-old looked sharp and raring to go, but the former Sparks star made a very valid point, keeping things realistic on the injury front. On the WNBA side, the former Stanford player sees Azzi Fudd making her entry for the Dallas Wings.
Chiney Ogwumike Sees Azzi Fudd As a Perfect Fit For The Wings
The WNBA draft now has only two months left, and most of the prediction lists see Azzi Fudd reuniting with Paige Bueckers at the Dallas Wings. Though Ogwumike doesn’t have a second thought about the possible top pick, she saw one particular trait that makes her a perfect solution for the Wings’ struggles.
Azzi Fudd today 🔥
— Women’s Hoops Network (@WomensHoops_USA) February 7, 2026
• 17 points
• 4 assists
• 3 stealspic.twitter.com/EWc3MLI4H0
On an ESPN show, she said, “One thing that translates in the WNBA is shooting. I would not be surprised if Azzi Fudd is the number one pick. She’s someone that’s leading them in scoring so far and has had multiple games with multiple threes. So she’s a shooter, and that’s good.”
Apart from leading the side in scoring in limited game time, the senior star is very efficient and effective on both ends of the floor.