Team USA men’s basketball had a strong start in their Paris Olympics opener against Serbia, winning 110-84. However, the absence of Jayson Tatum on the court raised questions. Head coach Steve Kerr took responsibility for not playing Tatum and acknowledged his mistake.
Kerr admitted that he felt like an “idiot” for not including Tatum in the rotation during the game. He mentioned that due to the limited 40-minute game time and the need to play only 10 players, tough decisions had to be made. Despite this, Kerr praised Tatum for handling the situation gracefully and assured that he would be back on the court in the next game.
Before the game, Kerr had a conversation with Tatum, informing him that playing time might be limited. He explained that with Kevin Durant returning and specific lineups in mind, Tatum’s minutes could vary based on matchups. Kerr emphasized that Tatum’s talent and contributions would be crucial in future games.
During the game, Durant emerged as a key player for Team USA, leading in points scored. Kerr also utilized other players like Bam Adebayo and Anthony Davis effectively. Despite Tatum’s absence in the opener, his basketball skills and achievements, including being named to the All-NBA first team for three consecutive seasons, highlight his importance to the team.
Looking ahead, Kerr assured that Tatum would have opportunities to showcase his abilities in the upcoming games. Team USA is set to face South Sudan next, where Tatum is expected to play a significant role. The previous exhibition match between the two teams in London presented a challenge for Team USA, indicating that South Sudan is a formidable opponent.
As Team USA progresses in the Olympics, fans can expect Tatum to make a notable impact on the court. Kerr’s acknowledgment of his mistake in not playing Tatum in the opener reflects a commitment to utilizing the talents of all players effectively. With Tatum’s skills and experience, he is poised to be a key player for Team USA in their quest for Olympic success.