In an exciting start to the Paris Olympics group stage play, Team USA secured a convincing 110-84 victory over Serbia on Sunday. While three Boston Celtics players were representing their city on the grand stage, only two of them saw playing time, leaving Jayson Tatum on the bench for the entire game.

Tatum, along with Tyrese Haliburton, were the only players who didn't log a single minute in the Americans' triumph over Serbia. This came as a surprise to many, considering Tatum's significant contributions in Team USA's previous showcase games, where he played at least 14 minutes in all five contests, even starting three of them.

Speculation had been rife that Tatum's absence on the court was due to illness, as there were reports of a sickness spreading within the team over the weekend. However, Tatum himself clarified to The Boston Globe's Gary Washburn after the game that he was in good health and not under the weather.

Meanwhile, Tatum's Celtics teammate, Jrue Holiday, made a significant impact in the game, earning a starting spot and logging the third-highest minutes (23:43) for Team USA. He also contributed 15 points, showcasing his offensive prowess on the global stage.

Derrick White, another Celtics player, came off the bench and played for 15 minutes and 40 seconds. White's performance included two points, two steals, a rebound, one assist, and a block, demonstrating his versatility on the court.

As Team USA continues their journey in the Paris Olympics, it remains to be seen how Tatum's limited role in the opening game will evolve. Celtics fans will surely be eagerly awaiting his return to the court, hoping for his immense talent to play a pivotal role in Team USA's quest for gold in the basketball competition.