Steve Kerr, the head coach of the USA Men’s basketball team, has revealed reasons for his roster selection decisions, particularly for his choice not to play Jayson Tatum against Serbia. The Boston Celtics star was left out of the game, as Team USA beat the Serbians 95-91 to proceed to the finals of the competition. However, criticisms have continued unabated, finally prompting Kerr to explain his reasons.
While speaking to the press after the game against Serbia, the USA head coach admitted his decision not to field Tatum in the game wasn’t because of any issues with the Celtics player.
It’s not about anything Jayson is doing or not doing. It’s just about combinations and the way that group has played together, the way Kevin has filled in since he came back from his injury. It’s just a math problem more than anything.
Steve Kerr said via Tim Reynolds/APNews
It’s worth noting that despite Tatum being an NBA champion along with other accolades, there are lots of other stars with bigger achievements and a stronger reputation than him. As Kerr puts it, his team selections are about finding the right balance and players each game, rather than an issue with the 26-year-old.
Furthermore, Team USA had four All-Stars on the floor, in the last stretch of play. Considering the number of more experienced and legendary names on the roster, it’s not hard to imagine what Steve Kerr must go through before naming who gets to play every game. The 58-year-old has the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, Stephen Curry, Joel Embiid, Devin Booker and others including Jayson Tatum in his team.
After signing new $315M contract, Jayson Tatum makes commitment to mother
Following a successful NBA season where he helped the Boston Celtics to a record 18th NBA championship, Jayson Tatum was rewarded with a new, massive contract worth $315M. In signing that contract, he leapfrogged teammate Jaylen Brown to become the holder of the richest contract ever.
Nonetheless, it appears Tatum is planning on living frugally despite his new bumper deal. The 26-year-old recently shared that he made a financial commitment with his mother geared towards intentional savings.
Jayson Tatum with the Boston Celtics (Image via NBA)Me and my mom had made a commitment to each other that I was going to save all my NBA money and live off my endorsements. Because you have the rest of your life to live and your family to take care of…
Jayson Tatum told ClutchPoints
According to him, saving the money from his huge contract will see his family set up and well taken care of in the future. This is particularly true as sports stars gradually get to the peak of their careers and then retire from the game. And when that day comes, Tatum will have his savings to fall back on.
