In a fiery rant, ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith did not hold back his criticism of Team USA head coach Steve Kerr for benching NBA champion Jayson Tatum during their 26-point victory over Serbia. The controversy has sparked widespread debate among basketball fans and analysts, with many questioning Kerr’s decision-making. The news was first highlighted by ClutchPoints on Twitter, adding fuel to the fire.
The Controversial Decision
During Team USA’s opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Steve Kerr made the surprising decision to bench Jayson Tatum, despite the team’s comfortable 110-84 win over Serbia. This move left many puzzled, especially considering Tatum’s pivotal role in leading the Boston Celtics to the 2024 NBA Championship.
Stephen A. Smith, known for his outspoken opinions, took to his show to express his frustration. He questioned Kerr’s rationale, stating, “The reigning, defending NBA champion Jayson Tatum… In a 26-point lopsided victory, you can’t find one minute?… Steve Kerr that’s some straight bullsh*t”.
“The reigning, defending, NBA champion Jayson Tatum… In a 26-point lopsided victory, you can’t find one minute?… Steve Kerr that’s some straight bullsh*t.”
Stephen A Smith WENT OFF on Steve Kerr for not putting JT in for Team USA 😳
(via @stephenasmith)pic.twitter.com/clHvzUFpR8
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) July 30, 2024
The Impact on Team Dynamics
Stephen A. Smith’s comments have brought attention to the delicate balance of managing star players in a team full of talent. Kerr’s decision to bench Tatum was reportedly to give Kevin Durant, who was returning from a calf injury, more playing time to regain his rhythm. However, this explanation did little to appease Smith and many fans who felt Tatum deserved to be on the court.
“To have a champion riding the bench, like he’s a damn waterboy, you’ve got to be kidding me!” Stephen A. Smith exclaimed.
Reactions from the Basketball Community
The tweet from ClutchPoints quickly went viral, with fans and analysts weighing in on the controversy. Many supported Smith’s viewpoint, arguing that Tatum’s contributions to Team USA should not be overlooked. Others defended Kerr, emphasizing the challenges of managing a roster filled with elite players and the need for strategic rotations.
ALSO READ: Steve Kerr Opens Up on Not playing Jayson Tatum Against Serbia- “I Felt Like an Idiot”
