Jayson Tatum’s performance with the Boston Celtics earned him high praise and trust from fans after leading the team to an NBA title last season. However, the Celtics star seemingly failed to satisfy Team USA head coach Steve Kerr. Despite Tatum’s star status, he was benched by Kerr in two games.
The decision to bench Tatum has sparked significant criticism. Former NBA star Carmelo Anthony has joined the chorus of those supporting Tatum. On a recent episode of his podcast, 7 PM in Brooklyn, Anthony expressed dissatisfaction with how the situation was handled.
“I understand why Tatum may have not played. I don’t agree with how they went about it. I’m cool with you saying he’s not going to play, just be honest. This is where we have a lack of communication,” Anthony said.
Anthony later credited the Celtics great for having the patience to accept the benching. He also expressed frustration, noting Tatum’s high profile and importance to Team USA.
“If I’m Tatum, I would be pissed. He’s the cover athlete of 25 on Sports Illustrated, 2K. This is male athlete of the year, and it’s somebody that you were building Team USA around. I just wish the communication was a little bit more between Kerr and him,” he added.
Kevin Garnett Sees Silver Lining in Jayson Tatum’s Limited Olympic Minutes
While many have criticized Team USA for benching Jayson Tatum during the Paris Olympics, Kevin Garnett offers a different perspective. On a recent episode of his podcast, KG Certified, Garnett highlighted a positive aspect of Tatum’s reduced playing time. Garnett pointed out that Tatum’s limited minutes might have given him some much-needed rest after an intense NBA season.
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“One of the harder years that I had personally was when you played in the Olympics. Not only does Jayson Tatum have the NBA Championship in the Olympic year, which is probably the most difficult to do, but you’ve got to lock in when you play for Team USA. It’s serious business,” Garnett said.
Despite the mixed reactions to his benching, Tatum himself seems unfazed. After winning his first Olympic gold, he is focused on his future and eager to make a bigger impact in the 2028 Summer Olympics.
