During the third FIBA World Cup first-round game against Jordan, Team USA head coach Steve Kerr decided to replace Brandon Ingram with Josh Hart in the starting lineup.
This decision came after Ingram’s struggles to find his role on the court, a fact he openly admitted.
Kerr explained his choice, highlighting Hart’s strengths, particularly his rebounding prowess. “Josh is our leading rebounder, had 12 more last night,” Kerr emphasized, via Joe Vardon of The Athletic, referencing Hart’s impressive rebound total against Jordan. “He has a strength and a tenacity to him that sometimes overcomes a height disadvantage.”
Hart, known for his hard work and dedication, embraced his role, whether in the first or second unit. “That’s my job, that’s my role,” he stated.
On the other side, Kerr believed that the change would better suit Ingram, placing him with a lineup where he could thrive alongside Tyrese Haliburton and Austin Reaves. “The game was much smoother. He had five assists. There was more space, he had the ball more,” Kerr explained.
