In a move that has left fans and analysts alike questioning Team USA’s approach at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Charles Barkley handed out his opinion. Steve Kerr’s decision to bench Jayson Tatum wasn’t appreciated by many. The HC himself regretted having to make that decision, stating he felt like an idiot. Chuck today reasons the commotion.

Appearing on the Dan Patrick Show, Charles Barkley was asked what he thought of Tatum being benched. The 76ers icon didn’t shy away from hurling statements that questioned the head coach’s decision. Barkley’s claim stems from Tatum’s consistent all-around performances, suggesting that Tatum’s current form could indeed place him above the likes of LeBron James and Kevin Durant.

“I mean, come on man. Stephen Curry… KD and LeBron and Bam, they are all great. But at this stage of their career, Jayson Tatum might be the best one out of those four,” Chuck opines.

Tatum, the youngest of the crew mentioned, may indeed be at the peak of his career. Coming off his first championship, making his 5th All-Star, the power forward averaged 30.1 and 26.9 in the last two seasons – the best of his career and the best of all four veterans there. Moreover, he played all six games in his last outing to average 15.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists. While that may not be all of the answer, it cannot be denied either.

“No disrespect to any of those guys. LeBron’s in GOAT conversation, Kevin Durant is great, Bam is great. But you can’t tell me like right now like, ‘yeah, Jayson Tatum might be the best out of those four guys,'” Barkley reiterates.

The 2024 NBA champion sat out the opening game against Serbia, started two, and came off the bench for one to average 6.3 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. All sat well with Tatum throughout, until a second game with no playing minutes against Serbia awoke a whole host of disappointment.

Jayson Tatum missed in the thriller against Serbia

Despite Steven Kerr “feeling like an idiot” for benching the Celtics star on Team USA’s first opener against Serbia, Tatum found himself sidelined once more. The 26-year-old wasn’t brought on court for a single minute even as the USA trailed the majority of the game.

The team was at an 11-point deficit by half time, 17 at one point, and 15 in the fourth quarter. Though they managed to pull off, what is said to be, the biggest comeback in the history of Olympics, Tatum’s absence was loud. Steve Kerr kept with a rotation that included Anthony Edwards and Devin Booker, falling short on the defensive end. The 6’10 forward was believed to have been a worthy addition in the aspect.

“In a 40-minute game, you can’t play more than 10,” the HC had reasoned his previous move and Tatum had been on par. However, following the semi-final game, the Celtics star reportedly stormed off. What are your thoughts on Kerr’s decisions? Do you believe Tatum should have played a more crucial role?

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.