The Boston Celtics are well-represented on Team USA as they’ve got Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday and Derrick White on the 12-man roster.
Boston is coming off the franchise’s 18th championship and now the trio has a chance to add to their trophy collection as they try to help Team USA win another gold medal.
The trek to the medal rounds got off to a great start as Team USA blew out Serbia 110-84 to pick up their first victory in pool play.
Kevin Durant and LeBron James led the way by combining for 44 points, showing that the old guard of the NBA is still primed to lead a team to the top.
Meanwhile, Holiday and White acted as the primary point of attack defender though Tatum was glued to the bench.
After the game ended, Tatum noted he wasn’t ill and was fully capable of playing via Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe.
“Just asked Jayson Tatum if he was sick, he told me, ‘No, I’m good.’” Washburn tweeted.
Just asked Jayson Tatum if he was sick, he told me, “No, I’m good.” #Celtics #Paris2024
— gary washburn (@GwashburnGlobe) July 28, 2024
Durant’s return to the lineup seemed to put Tatum on the outside looking in as he had generally gotten run with him out.
However, it seems that head coach Steve Kerr is set on his guard rotation of Stephen Curry, Devin Booker, Holiday and White which leaves no room for Tatum.
While Tatum might not have gotten to play Serbia, he’ll likely be called upon at some point as the team will need his blend of size, shooting and defense at the forward position.
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Jayson Tatum Had An Honest Admission About Jaylen Brown