Dave Portnoy is the president of Barstool and a big fan of the Boston Celtics. By extension, he will support Celtics superstar Jayson Tatum as well. Tatum may have won the NBA championship, but he has struggled to make a great impact on Team USA. As such, he has spent more time on the bench at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
In addition, the benching of Tatum by Steve Kerr did not go down well with Portnoy. Many former players and analysts have discussed the Jayson Tatum – Steve Kerr situation. Though others have understood the situation, Portnoy appears to be visibly annoyed by it. As such, he went on X to openly cheer for France over Team USA.
Well, let me say this as clearly as bluntly as straightforward as i can…I was rooting against them (Team USA) and I want France to beat them by 1000 points. I don’t care whether I’m an American, the disrespect that Steve Kerr has shown Jayson Tatum throughout the tournament makes me hate this team.
Dave Portnoy via X
Portnoy’s hate seems valid as Tatum has had one of the best seasons as an individual player in the NBA 2023-24 campaign, winning the title with the Boston Celtics. In addition, the disdain Dave Portnoy referenced was Tatum’s limited court time and numerous benchings.
Jayson Tatum won a gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in a team without LeBron James or Stephen Curry. He was the team’s second-leading scorer, so his abilities are undeniable. It remains to be seen if Tatum will get a chance to perform in the team’s final matchup against Victor Wembanyama‘s France.
NBA insider shares a positive message for Jayson Tatum’s stint with Team USA at Paris Olympics
Team USA star Jayson Tatum has been making the headlines lately for his limited game-time with his nation at the Paris Olympics. Tatum is visibly frustrated with his recent treatment. Notably, NBA insider Brian Windhorst shared a positive message about Tatum’s stint with Team USA, claiming that Team USA is currently winning and that Tatum will eventually be a “Gold medal” winner if they beat Team France.
I’m sure that Jayson Tatum is very frustrated by this. But I’m also gonna say that when you win, it means never having to say you’re sorry. What Steve Kerr and Team USA is doing right now is leading to victories.
Brian Windhorst via NBA on ESPN
“I’m sure that Jayson Tatum is very frustrated by this. But I’m also gonna say that when you win, it means never having to say you’re sorry. What Steve Kerr and Team USA is doing right now is leading to victories.”
— Brian Windhorst 👀
(via @ESPNNBA)pic.twitter.com/h6J01wtqFZ
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) August 9, 2024
In addition, Tatum, a multiple-time All-NBA First-Team, has averaged 6.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in three Olympic games against South Sudan, Puerto Rico, and Brazil. His performances haven’t been up to the mark. However, he has not played for sufficient time compared to his teammates in the decorated event.
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