Steve Kerr, the head coach of the USA Men’s Basketball team, has disclosed the rationale for his roster selection decisions, specifically his decision not to play Jayson Tatum against Serbia.
The Boston Celtics player was left out of the game, as Team USA defeated Serbia 95-91 to advance to the competition’s finals. However, critiques remained unabated, requiring Kerr to clarify his reasoning. While addressing to the press following the game against Serbia, the USA head coach confirmed that his choice not to play Tatum was not due to any difficulties with the Celtics star.
It’s not about anything Jayson is doing or not doing. It’s just about combinations and the way that group has played together, the way Kevin has filled in since he came back from his injury. It’s just a math problem more than anything. Steve Kerr said via Tim Reynolds/APNews
It’s worth mentioning that, despite Tatum’s NBA championship and other distinctions, there are plenty of other stars with more accomplishments and a larger reputation than him.
Kerr describes his squad selections as a matter of finding the perfect balance and players for each game, rather than an issue with the 26-year-old. In addition, Team USA had four All-Stars on the court during the final stretch of play. Given the number of more experienced and renowned names on the roster, it’s easy to image what Steve Kerr must go through before deciding who will play each game.
The 58-year-old leads a team that includes LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, Stephen Curry, Joel Embiid, Devin Booker, and Jayson Tatum.
After signing new $315M contract, Jayson Tatum makes commitment to mother.
Following a fantastic NBA season in which he helped the Boston Celtics win a record 18th NBA championship, Jayson Tatum was awarded a new, enormous contract for $315 million. By signing that contract, he surpassed teammate Jaylen Brown to become the owner of the biggest contract ever. Nonetheless, Tatum appears to be intent on living frugally despite his new lucrative contract. The 26-year-old recently revealed that he and his mother formed a financial commitment aimed at conscious savings.
Me and my mom had made a commitment to each other that I was going to save all my NBA money and live off my endorsements. Because you have the rest of your life to live and your family to take care of… Jayson Tatum told ClutchPoints
He claims that by setting aside the money from his large contract, he will be able to provide for his family in the future. This is especially true for athletes who progressively reach their professional pinnacles before quitting the sport. Tatum will also have his savings to fall back on when that time arrives.
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