Team USA’s decisive 110-84 win over Serbia in their opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympics was marked by an unusual absence: Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum did not play a single minute. Speculation about Tatum’s absence was quickly addressed post-game, with Team USA coach Steve Kerr explaining the decision was purely tactical.
A Tough Call for Kerr
Despite his first-team All-NBA status, Tatum was benched along with Indiana Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton. Kerr, who led the Golden State Warriors to the 2024 NBA Championship, admitted to feeling regret over the decision.
“I felt like an idiot not playing him, but you know, 40-minute game, you can’t play more than 10 [players],” Kerr told ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. “With Kevin [Durant] coming back, I just went to the combinations that I felt made the most sense.”
Kerr emphasized the importance of team dynamics and matchups in his decision-making process.
“Every game’s gonna be different based on matchups,” Kerr explained. “He’s a total pro, he’s first-team All-NBA three years in a row. It seems crazy. I thought I was crazy when I looked at everything and determined these are the lineups I wanted to get to.”
Team Dynamics and Future Games
Tatum decided stride, demonstrating his professionalism and readiness for future games. Kerr reassured fans that Tatum’s time would come.
“[Tatum will] make his mark. Our guys know the key to this whole thing is to put all the NBA stuff in the rearview mirror and just win six games. Jayson is the ultimate pro and champion and he handled it well, and he’s going to be ready for the next game.”
Standout Performances of Jayson Tatum
While Tatum sat out, other stars shined. Kevin Durant led the team with 23 points, while LeBron James added 21 points. Jrue Holiday contributed significantly with 15 points and two steals, and Derrick White of the Celtics chipped in with two points, two steals, and a block.
Looking Ahead
Tatum will look to make his presence felt in Team USA’s next game against South Sudan on Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET. Fans will be eager to see how Kerr adjusts his lineup and utilizes Tatum’s skills in the upcoming matches.
Jayson Tatum absence in Team USA’s opening game was a strategic decision by Coach Kerr, who prioritized specific lineups over individual star power. However, Tatum’s professionalism and readiness ensure he will be a key player in future matches.
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