During the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, Team USA maintained their undefeated streak, impressing everyone with their success in international competitions. On August 1, the U.S. men’s basketball team defeated South Sudan 103-86, despite South Sudan being a tough competitor during exhibition games. However, Bam Adebayo, the center for Team USA, was upset with ESPN’s Brian Windhorst for speculating that Steve Kerr might bench him, as he felt the game rotation was not appropriately handled.
“For instance, Bam Adebayo, who had a wonderful game against South Sudan with 18 points and seven rebounds, opened his news conference by admonishing a reporter for the mere suggestion that Adebayo might sit so Tatum could get a chance. “Why did you pick my name?” Adebayo said. “My accolades don’t stand up?” Joe Vardon, NBA Insider for the Athletic, wrote in his recent reports.
Adebayo delivered a dominant performance, scoring 18 points, and making two blocks, one steal, one assist, and seven rebounds.
NBA Analyst Says Adebayo Should Take the Spotlight as Heat’s Top Pick Over Butler
Ever since he was drafted by the Miami Heat in the 2017 NBA draft, Adebayo has been a vital part of the team. Alongside star player Jimmy Butler, he has helped the Heat reach the NBA Finals in 2020 and 2023.
In the 2023-24 NBA season, Adebayo delivered many outstanding performances that helped his team reach the playoffs. However, the team was ultimately defeated in the first-round series by the Boston Celtics, who later became the 2024 NBA champions. According to StatMuse, Adebayo averaged 19.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists in 71 games during the 2023-24 season. He also earned his third All-Star game selection.
Even though Butler is one of the Heat’s best players, one NBA analyst has a different outlook for the group. Ramona Shelburne of ESPN recently offered her opinions about how the Heat might contend.
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“I think they need to give the keys to Bam Adebayo. It’s been coming for a few years. They’ve been built around Jimmy Butler, but Jimmy Butler has not been available.” Shelburne said on NBA Today.
Shelburne stated that Adebayo should be the Heat’s first choice instead of Butler. However, this will become more evident when the upcoming season premieres, though.
