Team USA’s journey to securing their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal began with a commanding 110-84 victory over Serbia on Sunday. While Jayson Tatum did not see any action, his Boston Celtics teammates Jrue Holiday and Derrick White made notable contributions. Here’s a detailed look at their performances in the opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Jayson Tatum
Final Stat Line: DNP
Jayson Tatum did not play in the game against Serbia, which raised some questions among fans and analysts. Despite being healthy, as confirmed by Tatum himself to Gary Washburn of The Boston Globe, he spent the entire match on the bench. Team USA head coach Steve Kerr explained that he opted for lineups that made the most sense for the matchup, leading to Tatum’s absence from the rotation. Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton was the only other player who did not see action in the game.
Jrue Holiday
Final Stat Line: 24 minutes, 15 points (6 for 8 FG; 3 for 5 3PT), four rebounds, three assists, two steals, +9
Jrue Holiday was a standout performer for Team USA. Starting in the lineup, Holiday made significant contributions on both ends of the court. He scored 15 points on an efficient 6-of-8 shooting, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc. In addition to his scoring, Holiday grabbed four rebounds, dished out three assists, and recorded two steals. His defensive prowess and ability to contribute offensively solidified his role as a key player for Team USA.
Derrick White
Final Stat Line: 16 minutes, two points (1 for 2 FG; 0 for 1 3PT), one rebound, one assist, two steals, one block, +15
Derrick White’s impact in the game was less about scoring and more about his defensive contributions. While he only scored two points, White was effective defensively, matching Holiday with two steals and adding a block. His defensive capabilities, particularly his reputation as the best shot-blocking guard in the NBA, were on display. Despite his limited scoring, White’s defensive presence and overall +15 plus-minus rating highlighted his value to the team.
Key Highlights
Kevin Durant led Team USA with 23 points, shooting a perfect 8-of-8 from the field, including 5-of-5 from three-point range. His performance in the first half helped Team USA build a lead they would never relinquish.
LeBron James also played a crucial role, contributing 21 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds, showcasing his all-around game.
Upcoming Game
Team USA will face South Sudan next on Wednesday at 3 p.m. ET. With their strong performance in the opener, the Americans look well-positioned to advance further in the tournament and continue their pursuit of Olympic gold.