I don’t think you can both 1) claim to be the objective side 2) dismiss criticism because the player plays on your favorite team. Like why does it matter if Kessler plays for the Jazz he got cooked today. But I do agree that deeply unserious people remain unserious
I think Kerr got too cute with his roster selection. This is why USA basketball should probably have a coach that coaches in FIBA instead of NBA/college coaches who don’t care and are there in vacation and to recruit. Kessler wasn’t getting the job done….but no other options really. So even though he was ineffective today they should probably lean on him more. Mistakes were made in the construction of this roster but it cannot be fixed now. Even JJJ is kinda “soft” as a big man.
Rebounding is such a big part of the game but was totally overlooked. USA can still win the World Cup, but they will have to do so by winning shootouts or by Kessler adding that big man element the team is desperately needing. Chances are, Kerr won’t give him the chance so shootout it is. But USA are getting tougher shots and less of them because they give up so many rebounds.