Contemporary off his first NBA title win, Jayson Tatum was anticipated to play a major position for Crew USA on the Paris Olympics, particularly because of his huge expertise in FIBA competitions. As a substitute, the Celtics ahead rode the bench for 2 of the six video games in Paris and averaged 17.7 minutes in his 4 outings.
Tatum’s sporadic utilization led to many criticizing Crew USA head coach Steve Kerr, with some even urging the Celtics star to sit out the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in protest.
To his credit score, Tatum remained even-keeled all through the Olympic expertise, although he wished he had acquired extra taking part in time, per The Boston Globe’s Tara Sullivan.
“I can not lie. It was difficult,” Tatum mentioned of his lack of taking part in time. “Particularly after the expertise of the very best of the very best profitable a championship, after which put in a brand new scenario the place you’ve got by no means been in that spot earlier than. However , I did not wish to make it about me… I simply stayed an expert. I got here to work day by day. Simply keep prepared.”
Apart from a slew of present and former gamers, rapper Vince Staples posted a message to indicate solidarity with Tatum. Apparently, Tatum shared the publish on his social media, fueling chatter that he was sad about his taking part in time for Crew USA.
