The Boston Celtics have one of the best players in the NBA.
Jayson Tatum is, legitimately, one of the most talented players in the game, and he’s posted MVP-caliber numbers for years now.
However, that doesn’t mean he’s needed on the court for Team USA, at least not as currently constructed and in certain matchups.
At least, that’s how coach Steve Kerr feels, and he reportedly let him know that he may not play vs. Serbia because of Kevin Durant’s return from injury.
Notably, that was precisely what happened, and while coach Kerr admitted that he felt bad because of it, he also stated that Tatum handled it well.
Nonetheless, Shannon Sharpe feels otherwise.
Talking to Chad ‘Ochocinco’ Johnson, the legendary tight end stated that the greater the talent, the greater the pride, adding that even if he never admits it, Tatum was clearly bothered by not playing (via Nightcap).
Tatum gonna become a big gun on team USA?
@ShannonSharpe @ochocinco @ShayShayMedia_ pic.twitter.com/zJ5WnXMtYR
— Nightcap (@NightcapShow_) July 29, 2024
He stated that, being the star and the NBA champion he is, Tatum was most definitely angry about not getting to play, as he’s also a star looking to build his brand, just like everybody else.
At the end of the day, you can only roll with what works, and Kerr’s rotations were working.
It’s about winning and the bigger picture; it’s not about honoring a player’s ego or whatnot.
There should be more than enough opportunities for Tatum to get some minutes, but all players representing their national teams must understand that their roles might be different from their usual roles in the NBA.
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