Steve Kerr Defends Jayson Tatum's Bench Role

Steve Kerr's decision to bench Jayson Tatum during Team USA's Olympic opener against Serbia has sparked significant backlash, with commentators like Kendrick Perkins accusing him of disrespecting the All-NBA star. Despite leading to a convincing 110-84 victory, the move overshadowed the game, with critics arguing that Tatum's versatility warranted playing time. Kerr admitted feeling like an 'idiot' for not playing Tatum and assured that he would adjust lineups for future games, including the upcoming match against South Sudan. Doug Gottlieb defended Kerr, suggesting that responses from critics stem from social media pressure rather than genuine basketball strategy concerns. The discourse highlights the tension between team dynamics and individual player recognition, especially in a star-studded lineup. As the next game approaches, the focus will shift to whether Tatum can reclaim his role and contribute meaningfully to Team USA's success.