Team USA kicked off their Paris Olympic campaign with an impressive 110-84 win against Serbia. However, the victory was overshadowed by controversy over the exclusion of Boston Celtics’ NBA title-winning star, Jayson Tatum, from the game.
The decision to bench Tatum sparked widespread criticism, with head coach Steve Kerr facing significant backlash. Among the critics is NBA legend Charles Barkley, who voiced disapproval during an appearance on SiriusXM NBA Radio.
“First of all, he’s got to play. Everybody on the team has to play. Do you have to play 25-30 minutes? No, but it’s the Olympics. It’s not like there is such a downgrade,” Barkley said.
“Everybody on the team has to play”
🔊 Charles Barkley weighs in on the decision by Steve Kerr not to play Jayson Tatum against Serbia@TermineRadio | @Jumpshot8 pic.twitter.com/RQDvdbjGks
— SiriusXM NBA Radio (@SiriusXMNBA) July 30, 2024
Barkley later stated the importance of giving all players a chance to contribute, suggesting that including Tatum in the lineup wouldn’t negatively impact the team’s performance.
“That’s not a huge downgrade putting Jayson Tatum in the game. Come on, man. Everybody deserves to play for at least 10 minutes,” he added.
NBA Analysts Question Steve Kerr’s Choice to Sideline Jayson Tatum
Alongside Charles Barkley, ESPN’s Frank Isola shared his perspective on SiriusXM’s NBA Radio. While understanding the challenges of managing a roster full of superstars, Isola questioned the decision to bench Jayson Tatum.
“I get it. I understand it’s gonna be 10 guys. Steve Kerr has got to make these tough calls, but it’s gotta be Jayson Tatum? I understand what Steve Kerr is doing, but how do you reach the conclusion that it should be Tatum just based on what everyone on the team has done over the last couple of months?” he said.
“He’s going to be the odd man out? I’m not saying Lebron (James) should be the odd man out or Kevin Durant, but how is Jayson Tatum the odd man out?” he added.
In response to the backlash, Steve Kerr confirmed that Tatum would play in their upcoming game against South Sudan.
