Team USA coach Steve Kerr has officially announced that Jayson Tatum will be taking the court in the upcoming game against South Sudan in the Paris Olympics. Tatum, who recently clinched a championship with the Boston Celtics, was sidelined during the opening match against Serbia, which ended in a 110-84 victory for the U.S. team.
Kerr revealed that he had a discussion with Tatum prior to the game against Serbia to clarify the decision to keep him out of the lineup. The coach emphasized the importance of strategic matchups and lineup combinations when making such decisions. Despite not playing in the first game, Kerr assured reporters that Tatum will be a key player in the upcoming match against South Sudan.
The U.S. team displayed a strong performance in the game against Serbia, with Kevin Durant scoring 23 points in just 17 minutes and LeBron James adding 21 points to secure the victory. Kerr acknowledged the challenge of having to bench talented players in favor of specific game strategies, highlighting the need for all team members to stay engaged and prepared.
Tatum’s impressive stats from his time with the Celtics, averaging 26.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in the previous season, reflect his potential impact on the court. His athleticism and defensive capabilities will be crucial in facing off against a South Sudan team known for their sharpshooting abilities and quick pace. In a recent exhibition game against South Sudan, Tatum contributed nine points in 16 minutes, showcasing his versatility and skills.
Kerr emphasized the importance of being prepared for the speed and agility of the South Sudan team, emphasizing the need for a collective team effort to secure a victory. As the U.S. team gears up for the upcoming game, Kerr remains focused on maximizing the strengths of each player and maintaining a winning mentality throughout the tournament. The match against South Sudan promises to be a challenging yet exciting opportunity for Team USA to showcase their talent and determination on the global stage.