Digest

Molly Karam hosts First Take, discussing Jason Tatum's response to a question about Jaylen Brown's absence from Team USA. She argues that Tatum's response was understandable given the circumstances and that the situation is more complex than it appears. Tatum's teammate, Kawhi Leonard, was replaced by Derek White, who was also a key player on the Celtics' championship team. Tatum's response, while not explicitly defending Brown, acknowledged that there were other players who could have taken the final spot. Karam emphasizes that Tatum is in a difficult position, as he doesn't want to disrespect White or the team's decision, but also wants to support his teammate. She believes that the situation is being blown out of proportion and that Tatum's response was simply a reflection of his exhaustion after a long season. She also points out that Tatum has previously defended Brown, including when he was snubbed from the All-NBA team. Karam concludes that the Celtics' front office is strong and that Brad Stevens will likely address the situation with the team before training camp. The hosts then discuss the first time they asked for an autograph, with Molly Karam mentioning Drew Nightsow, a former NBA player.

Outlines

00:00:00

First Take Introduction

This Chapter introduces the hosts and guests of the show, including Molly Karam, Harry Douglas, and Courtney Cronin. They discuss the absence of Stephen A. Smith and the upcoming topics for the show.

00:01:07

Jason Tatum's Response to Jaylen Brown's Absence

This Chapter focuses on Jason Tatum's response to a question about Jaylen Brown's absence from Team USA. The hosts discuss the context of the situation, including Kawhi Leonard's injury and the selection of Derek White as his replacement. They analyze Tatum's body language and his statement that there were other players who could have taken the final spot. They also discuss the potential for dissension in the Celtics' locker room due to Brown's perceived lack of recognition.

00:29:10

Further Discussion on Tatum's Response

This Chapter continues the discussion on Jason Tatum's response to the question about Jaylen Brown's absence from Team USA. The hosts reiterate that there is more to the story than meets the eye and that the situation is complex. They emphasize that Tatum is in a difficult position and that his response was simply a reflection of his exhaustion after a long season.

00:35:32

Autograph Memories

This Chapter shifts to a lighter topic as the hosts discuss their first experiences asking for autographs. Molly Karam mentions Drew Nightsow, a former NBA player, as someone she asked for an autograph from.

Keywords

Q&A

• Why was Jaylen Brown not selected for Team USA?

  Jaylen Brown was not selected for Team USA because Kawhi Leonard, who was originally selected, had to withdraw due to injury. The team then replaced Leonard with Derek White, who was also a key player on the Celtics' championship team.

• What was Jason Tatum's response to the question about Jaylen Brown's absence?

  Tatum's response was not explicitly defending Brown, but he acknowledged that there were other players who could have taken the final spot. He also seemed uncomfortable with the question and wanted to move on.

• Do you think Tatum's response will create dissension in the Celtics' locker room?

  The hosts believe that the Celtics' front office is strong and that Brad Stevens will likely address the situation with the team before training camp. They also believe that Tatum and Brown have a strong relationship and that this situation will not affect their ability to play together.

• Who was the first person you asked for an autograph?

  Molly Karam mentions Drew Nightsow, a former NBA player, as someone she asked for an autograph from.

Show Notes