Brian Windhorst hints that Bam Adebayo could get benched next in Team USA’s matchup vs. South Sudan.

Brian Windhorst hints that Bam Adebayo could get benched next in Team USA’s matchup vs. South Sudan.

Following Team USA’s victory in their opening game of the 2024 Paris Olympics, discussions arose regarding Jayson Tatum’s absence from the game. As they prepare for their second match on Wednesday, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst speculates that Miami Heat’s Bam Adebayo might also see limited playing time.

South Sudan’s team composition contrasts sharply with their first opponent, Serbia, which consisted mainly of big men and guards. This prompted U.S. head coach Steve Kerr to rotate his lineup without including Tatum, a recent All-NBA player for the Boston Celtics who signed the biggest contract in NBA history.

Despite potential controversy, leaving Tatum out proved effective, as Team USA secured a decisive 110-84 win. The team utilized 10 players, each playing over 10 minutes. Adebayo scored four points, with two rebounds and two assists in his 20 minutes off the bench. Joel Embiid, starting at center, struggled with only four points and two rebounds in 11 minutes. Anthony Davis added seven points and eight rebounds in 19 minutes. Kevin Durant excelled off the bench, scoring 23 points, while LeBron James added 21 points, nine assists, and seven rebounds.

The upcoming game against South Sudan is highly anticipated, especially after Team USA narrowly won their exhibition match by one point. Adebayo scored four points and grabbed two rebounds in 16 minutes during that game. The United States will then face Puerto Rico on Saturday in their final group stage game, aiming for their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal.