2024-08-09 14:30:02
ARIS MESSINIS/AFP via Getty Images
Team USA survived its semifinal matchup against Serbia, winning 95-91 to advance to the gold-medal game, but it didn’t come without a fight.
The United States trailed 76-63 heading into the fourth quarter and had to rally behind LeBron James and Steph Curry to come out with the win. It was unlike any Team USA performance so far in this year’s Olympics, as it has mostly handled its competition in Paris.
One of the biggest storylines from Thursday’s game was Boston Celtics star Jayson Tatum once again getting no minutes. There were moments when Team USA clearly needed a versatile defender like Tatum to help defend Serbia’s shooters, yet Steve Kerr never looked to the NBA champion.
After another DNP for Tatum, fans voiced their frustrations over Kerr’s decision.
StatMuse @statmuse
Jayson Tatum is leading the NBA in playoff points, threes, free throws and wins in the 2020s.
Steve Kerr is giving him 0 minutes in an elimination game. pic.twitter.com/khOtGy6v3o
Tatum was a key member of Team USA when it won gold at the Tokyo Olympics, but he hasn’t had the chance to do much in this year’s Olympics. His best game came against Puerto Rico when he had 10 points and 10 boards in 22 minutes.
Team USA will now face France and has the chance to win a fifth straight gold medal. Whether Tatum will be a part of the team’s efforts on Saturday is to be determined.
