The U.S. basketball team earned a game-opening victory over Serbia at the 2024 Olympics, but all the discussion after the win revolved around one player who didn’t touch the court: Jayson Tatum.
The Celtics star’s absence took its toll on what was a dominant performance by the Americans in the group stage opener in Paris. Team USA head coach Steve Kerr decided not to play Tatum, even as the U.S. pulled away with a double-digit lead late in the game. Kerr said it was simply matchups and Tatum would have his moment.
So with Game 2 for the United States set for Wednesday afternoon, the biggest question heading into the game will be about Tatum’s minutes and who might be impacted in terms of playing time to get the 2024 NBA champion on the court.
Jugo Mobile followed Tatum’s minutes and stats against South Sudan at the 2024 Olympics.
Jayson Tatum’s minutes today against South Sudan
Tatum was guaranteed more playing time today against South Sudan than he received against Serbia. After being benched for the entire opening game, Kerr decided to start him against South Sudan.
New beginning 5 for ?? #USABMNT vs South Sudan
? @USANetwork @Peacock#Paris2024 #Basketball image.twitter.com/vGc2qOAYcA
— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) July 31, 2024
Tatum played more than 11 minutes in the first half, but was unable to score his first point until the third quarter.
He ended up playing 17:10 of the game, the fewest of the five starters on Kerr’s team.
Jayson Tatum’s stats today against South Sudan
Final: USA 103, South Sudan 86
- Points: 4
- Rebounds: 5
- Aid: 2
- Robberies: 0
- Blocks: 1
- Cough: 1
- FG: 2 by 4
USA Basketball Team Schedule for 2024 Olympics
Team USA is in Group C along with Serbia, South Sudan and Puerto Rico. The Americans’ schedule for the group stage can be found below.
| Date | Game | Time (ET) | television channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 of July | United States 110Serbia 84 | 11:15 am | NBC, Fubo |
| July 31st | United States 103, South Sudan 86 | 3 pm | USA, Fubo |
| August 3rd | United States vs Puerto Rico | 11:15 am | NBC, Fubo |
