In the week coming up to Team USA’s first scrimmаge, Jayson Tatum reiterated his message from the Celtics’ championship campaign. He stated that it is irrelevant who starts and that the United States will win another gold medal if the talented group they assembled to avenge their poor performance at the World Cup last summer can all make sacrifices.

Tatum came off the bench for Jrue Holiday in Team USA’s first exhibition before the Olympics, despite Kevin Durant’s (calf) absence and Kawhi Leonard’s withdrawal on Wednesday. Tatum excelled in a simple role, concentrating on defense, passing, and driving to the basket rather than hitting numerous shots. Holiday played a role identical to the one he had in Boston. Team USA won the game 86-72.