The Olympics snub of Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum’s reduced minutes in Paris made all the headlines. Of course, Steve Kerr led the team to a 17th Olympic gold. But coming fresh off an NBA championship, Tatum’s continuous benching obviously irked some fans. Thus, it’s been an ongoing debate on why he didn’t get more minutes on the floor with Kerr mentioning, “We’ve got 12 Hall of Famers, and we’re just committed to winning, and we won a gold medal.” Curious to understand insider information about how those players dealt with it, 2x NBA champion Jrue Holiday discussed it with Paul George.

On Podcast P with Paul George, the 76ers star wanted to know Jrue Holiday’s mindset and his Boston Celtics teammates’ thoughts during those challenging days. Holiday discussed being impressed with their professionalism during the controversy.

“I feel like they were as professional as they could be. Like JT the way he handled it, he handled it like a professional. He never brought in the locker room. He never brought it to us like yeah, we talked about it and all that. But it was never like it was an issue,” said Holiday revealed. And it’s true!

Significantly, Jayson Tatum never came to the media and created a scene during or after the Olympics. Interestingly, when the Boston Celtics met the Golden State Warriors earlier this season, where Steve Kerr and his side emerged victorious, JT went straight into the locker room, seemingly giving a cold shoulder. Fans loved it, of course! As for Jaylen Brown, Jrue Holiday explained the ‘same thing.’

“And then, the same thing with D White and JB. We all love each other, so it was never an issue amongst us. But I do know that there are some things that were put out there that is real controversial,” cited Holiday on the podcast, who loved his teammates’ professionalism. The way everyone on the Celtics roster has handled this situation just goes on to show the team’s bond.

The legendary 18th banner run reigns supreme for Holiday!

Jrue’s second NBA championship victory made this moment particularly memorable for him. The player became a vital clog in the system and continued to show his worth for the new franchise after a title with the Milwaukee Bucks. He loves the Celtics boys.

“And then on the flip side, by just winning the championship with my boys and knowing how good they are. And they are good enough to be on this team.” Just by looking at the stats, you know Jayson Tatum and Brown didn’t just deserve to be on the Team USA roster, they deserved to be playing important minutes. Both players averaged 24+ points for the Celtics last season, which benefited them in winning the Championship.

“You know, and make an impact or even on the team, not playing as much as you’re used to or looking at time like that. It’s definitely hard to see because you want the best for your man. I mean, I want them to play as many minutes and do all that. And win all the accolades,” said Holiday.

As for Holiday, it became a personal achievement. “You know. I think you gotta balance it. However, it might be. Kind of like you said, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity or experience where you could get to be around some of the greatest athletes in the world.” When a basketball player gets offered a chance to play with LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant, you probably stop thinking about anything else.

But don’t worry. These guys are young and they will make the Olympics next time if things go well. LeBron, KD, and Curry will retire soon and Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown will get a chance to make a mark.