The issue for Team USA in the upcoming Tokyo Olympics is not one of talent but rather available talent. As the world basketball powerhouse, the United States has a wide pool to pick from, but which NBA stars will be willing to play?
According to Joe Vardon of The Athletic, Celtics star Jayson Tatum could be the key building block. Last month, Tatum joined the WojPod with ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski and discussed possibly playing in Tokyo.
“A chance to win a gold medal and represent your country on the world stage, at such a young age would mean the world,” said Tatum on the podcast.
With USA training camp set to begin in July, there is a real chance that Tatum not only plays in Tokyo but is one of the team leaders. It would be a chance for the NBA All-Star to avenge Team USA’s 2019 FIBA World Cup loss to France in the quarterfinals.