Team USA’s victory over Serbia was a big highlight for several reasons. But one of them has caused Gilbert Arenas’ frustration over Kerr’s coaching strategies. His decision to bench 2024 NBA champion Jayson Tatum in the first game for Team USA wasn’t an easy one to stomach. But what surprised Arenas more was the coach’s explanation for the move. He even called it one of the “stupidest” excuses he has ever heard.
“Why he didn’t play Jason Tatum was the stupidest excuse I’ve ever heard in my life,” Arenas said on No Chill Gill. To defend his decision, Kerr explained his difficulty in adjusting playing time for Kevin Durant, who finally made a comeback after his injury. He also noted that both Durant and Tatum play the same position. In response, Arenas pointed out that they actually play different positions. “This is not the NBA,” Agent said as he criticized Kerr for not thinking beyond NBA-style tactics.
“’KD had it going’. Bi**h he’s not even the Power Forward what do you have him at Power Forward? He’s a f*****g guard. He’s a shooting guard small forward and you’re telling me the reason he didn’t play is because Kevin Durant like just doesn’t make any sense,” Arenas said.
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When asked about not playing Tatum, Kerr admitted that it was a tough decision but the 2024 Champion had handled it really well. “I talked to him before the game that it may play out this way with Kevin coming back,” he iterated. Though Kerr admitted he “felt like an idiot,” not playing Tatum, it was the initial remark that irked Arenas.
What’s your reaction? Is Steve Kerr’s excuse for benching Jayson Tatum the dumbest you’ve ever heard? React! Reactions
via Reuters Paris 2024 Olympics – Basketball – Men’s Group Phase – Group C – Serbia vs United States of America – Lille, Pierre Mauroy Stadium, Villeneve-d’Ascq, France – July 28, 2024. Coach Steve Kerr of United States before the match REUTERS/Brian Snyder
The Washington Wizards’ star is of the belief that if you were to not play someone, do not relay it to the player before the game. Because, if the situation demands them on the court, they might not be mentally prepared for it. This, he calls unacceptable. “That sounds ignorant in coaching terms,” he adds.
How does Jayson Tatum feel about his snub?
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With a roster full of star players, Kerr is facing the challenge of distributing playing time. The result was Tatum sitting on the bench while his teammates secured a 110-84 win over Serbia. Durant scored 23 points, with 21 coming in the first half, while LeBron James contributed 21 points and 8 rebounds. Did this decision affect Tatum?
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Champions aren’t the ones to hold grudges. While it’s true that Tatum wanted to play and lead the team, he is thrilled to see the team clinch a win. “It’s a unique situation, and it’s not about one individual player. The competitor in you wants to play, obviously. But I’m not here to make a story about myself. We won,” Tatum said.
Tatum finally started for the team in the next matchup against South Sudan. During his 17 minutes of playtime, the Boston Celtics star scored 4 points on 2-for-4 shooting. Many, including NBC Sports’ Chris Forsberg, share the opinion of Arenas.
However, Kerr has clarified that although Tatum didn’t play in the game against Serbia, he will have a significant role in the Olympics. The Golden State Warriors coach will continually adjust the starting lineup based on the opponents. Next up, Team USA will face Puerto Rico. Yet, as Tatum steps into the picture, another talent might have to stand on the sidelines.
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Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.