Team USA Triumphs Over Serbia, Jayson Tatum Sits Out
In their opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Team USA put on a dominant performance, securing a 110-84 victory over Serbia. While the team showcased a masterful display of basketball, a significant storyline emerged concerning Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum, who did not log any minutes in the match.
Tatum, a pivotal figure for the Celtics, has been instrumental in their recent success, leading the team to a championship and earning All-NBA First Team honors this past season. During the lead-up to the Olympics, Tatum averaged 17.6 minutes over five exhibition games, making his absence in the opening game against Serbia noteworthy.
According to head coach Steve Kerr, the decision to bench Tatum was primarily due to the return of Kevin Durant. "Kerr told reporters that the DNP-CD was mostly a result of getting Durant in the mix," Kerr explained. Durant, who had not played in the friendlies prior to the Serbia game, stepped back into the lineup seamlessly, filling Tatum's usual spot in the rotation.
"I went with the combinations that made sense. That was for tonight. He handled it well. He'll make his mark," Kerr said, elaborating on his tactical decisions. Durant’s return undoubtedly influenced the dynamic of the game, as he brought his veteran experience and scoring prowess back onto the court, which significantly contributed to Team USA's resounding victory.
The starting lineup featured some of the NBA's brightest stars, including Stephen Curry, Jrue Holiday, Devin Booker, LeBron James, and Joel Embiid. Embiid, who had missed some practices due to illness, played a crucial role in the win, demonstrating his resilience and dedication to the team's efforts.
Interestingly, Tyrese Haliburton was sidelined and did not play against Serbia, which allowed Derrick White to take over point guard duties for the second unit over the last two-and-a-half games. White's performance was steady, providing a reliable backup option and maintaining the offensive flow when the starters rested.
Inquiries about Tatum's status were promptly addressed by the man himself. "No, I'm good," he assured fans and reporters, dispelling any concerns about potential injuries or personal issues. Tatum's response suggests confidence in his role moving forward and an understanding of team dynamics and rotational strategies.
Up next for Team USA are matchups against South Sudan on Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET and Puerto Rico next Sunday at 11:15 a.m. ET. These games will further test the depth and versatility of the roster, as well as Kerr's strategic adjustments.
Despite Tatum's absence, Team USA's depth and collective talent were on full display against Serbia. The victory, orchestrated by a mix of veteran leadership and strategic coaching, sets a promising tone for the remainder of the Olympic tournament.