Hart might not fit the mold of Team USA players of the past. But Steve Kerr insisted he'd be vital to success. And so far, he has been.
and Brunson, and if they can swing it, the reigning NBA Defensive Player of the Year in Jackson. But they want the bit player too. That’s Hart.
Kerr had insisted throughout training camp and into the Spain portion of USA’s exhibition season, when Hart had missed the first game waiting for that contract to come through, that Hart was going to play a consistent and important role. That’s certainly been the case in the Americans’ first two World Cup games, as Kerr has turned to him as the first two substitutes.
“I had a conversation with Coach Kerr … I knew I was gonna be out there, on the team, and when my name was called, just to be ready,” Hart said Monday night in Manila. “And if not, you know, have good vibes. I’m out there playing hard and having good vibes, man. Just kind of taking my role however it is.”
Hart averaged 9.8 points and 7.8 rebounds last season for Portland and New York. He measured his role on Team USA against what he does with the Knicks as “similar in some aspects — obviously not as involved offensively” but added: “I’m cool with it.” “When you’re playing at this level, with this many good players, man, you gotta adapt,” Hart said. “I think that’s the biggest thing, and that’s what I’m doing.”Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.Follow Joe on Twitter
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