Home NBA Steve Kerr Regrets Not Playing Jayson Tatum: A Lesson in Evaluating Young Talent

Steve Kerr Regrets Not Playing Jayson Tatum: A Lesson in Evaluating Young Talent

Steve Kerr Regrets Not Playing Jayson Tatum: A Lesson in Evaluating Young Talent

Steve Kerr Regrets Not Playing Jayson Tatum: A Lesson in Evaluating Young Talent

Steve Kerr: “I Felt Like An Idiot” For Not Playing Jayson Tatum

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr recently admitted that he regrets not giving more playing time to Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum during the 2017 NBA All-Star Weekend.

In an interview, Kerr praised Tatum’s skills and acknowledged that he made a mistake in overlooking the young player’s potential. Kerr expressed his regret, saying, “I felt like an idiot for not playing Jayson Tatum more during that All-Star Weekend. He was clearly a talent to watch.”

Kerr’s comments came after Tatum’s breakout performance during the All-Star Weekend Rising Stars Challenge. Tatum, then a rookie, put on an impressive display, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility on both ends of the court.

The 22-year-old Tatum scored 34 points en route to winning the game’s MVP award and leading Team USA to a victory over Team World. His stellar performance caught the attention of basketball fans and coaches alike, including Kerr.

Reflecting on that moment, Kerr admitted that he underestimated Tatum’s potential impact and deeply regretted not utilizing him more. “I saw his potential, but I didn’t fully realize it until that game. I should have given him more minutes to shine,” Kerr stated.

Tatum has since become one of the NBA’s rising stars, making multiple All-Star appearances and guiding the Celtics to playoff success. Known for his scoring prowess, smooth shooting stroke, and strong defensive skills, Tatum has established himself as a key player on the Celtics’ roster.

Kerr’s admission serves as a reminder that even renowned coaches can make mistakes in player evaluation. It also highlights the importance of recognizing and fostering young talent in the highly competitive world of professional basketball.

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As Tatum’s career continues to flourish, Kerr’s realization serves as a valuable lesson for coaches and fans alike. It emphasizes the significance of giving young players opportunities to showcase their abilities and not underestimating their potential impact.