Team USA basketball got off to a strong start at the 2024 Olympics with a convincing win over Serbia. However, all the buzz after the game centered around one player who didn’t see any action – Jayson Tatum.
Despite Tatum’s absence, the Americans dominated their opening group play in Paris. Head coach Steve Kerr decided not to play Tatum in the game, citing matchup reasons and assuring that Tatum would have his time on the court.
As Team USA gears up for their next game against South Sudan, the focus shifts to Tatum’s potential playing time and the impact it may have on other players’ minutes.
The Sporting News kept track of Tatum’s performance against South Sudan at the 2024 Olympics.
MORE: Live updates, highlights from USA vs. South Sudan Olympic basketball game
Jayson Tatum’s playing time against South Sudan
Tatum was set to play more minutes against South Sudan after being benched for the previous game against Serbia. Kerr opted to start him in the matchup against South Sudan.
Fresh Starting 5 for 🇺🇸 #USABMNT vs 🇸🇸 South Sudan
📺 @USANetwork @peacock #Paris2024 #Basketball pic.twitter.com/vGc2qOAYcA
Tatum played over 11 minutes in the first half but struggled to score until the third quarter.
He ended up logging 17:10 minutes in the game, the lowest among the five starters in Kerr’s lineup.
Jayson Tatum’s stats against South Sudan
Final Score: USA 103, South Sudan 86
- Points: 4
- Rebounds: 5
- Assists: 2
- Steals: 0
- Blocks: 1
- Turnovers: 1
- Field Goals: 2-for-4
Team USA basketball schedule at the 2024 Olympics
Team USA is competing in Group C alongside Serbia, South Sudan, and Puerto Rico. Here is the schedule for the group stage:
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 28 | USA 110, Serbia 84 | 11:15 a.m. | NBC, Fubo |
| July 31 | USA 103, South Sudan 86 | 3 p.m. | USA, Fubo |
| Aug. 3 | USA vs. Puerto Rico | 11:15 a.m. | NBC, Fubo |