Team USA dominated their first game in the 2024 Olympics, beating Serbia 110-84 on Sunday. LeBron James and Kevin Durant were the standout players.
Coach Steve Kerr used a 10-man rotation and a three-guard lineup, with Derrick White and Anthony Edwards coming off the bench. Devin Booker started as a small forward.
Jayson Tatum didn’t play at all due to Kerr’s rotation choices, which surprised many fans . However, Kerr mentioned that Tatum will play against South Sudan on Wednesday.
Controversy Over Benching Tatum:
Kerr explained his decision by saying, “Jayson Tatum will play… But weโre going to need him, and part of this job for me is to keep everybody engaged and ready.” Despite this explanation, criticism has been strong. Fans might think it’s unfair since Tatum is considered one of the top players in the world.
Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins criticized Kerr’s decision on ESPN’s First Take, stating, “You do not disrespect him and embarrass him the way that you did.”
"You know what Jayson Tatum is going to bring to the table. You do not disrespect him and embarrass him the way that you did."
โ@KendrickPerkins on Steve Kerr sitting Jayson Tatum vs. Serbia
— First Take (@FirstTake)
Many believe that keeping such a versatile player like Tatum on the bench was a mistake. He has proven his worth time and again for Team USA and his NBA team. As Perkins pointed out, it’s essential for coaches to find a place for such talent in any game strategy.
When Tatum gets back into action against South Sudan, everyone will be watching closely. He needs to prove himself once more and show why he shouldn’t be benched again.
What do you think about Kerr’s decision? Should he have played Tatum from the start?
