Jayson Tatum Brutally Honest About Team USA Role After Latest Benching. What he said
2 mins
Jayson Tatum’s role with Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics has shifted compared to his usual position with the Boston Celtics. Despite being surrounded by NBA stars and future Hall of Famers, Tatum has found himself in more of a supporting role, which he’s accepted with grace.
After being asked about the challenges of maintaining his rhythm despite his role fluctuating, Tatum simply laughed before responding:
“I don’t know. Each game is extremely different, but the main thing is that we win. So whatever we’ve got to do or I’ve got to do from game to game to be a part of that and contribute when I can, I’m going to do that.”
Tatum’s “benching” during Team USA’s first game in Paris against Serbia sparked a lot of conversation online, with fans and media alike questioning Steve Kerr’s decision to keep the former Duke standout off the court. However, the team has continued to find success in the tournament, and that’s what matters most to Tatum and the squad.
So far in the Paris Games, Tatum is averaging 6.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, shooting 38.9 percent from the field. Team USA is now just two wins away from securing another Olympic gold, with a rematch against Serbia scheduled for the semifinals this Thursday.
