Men's basketball: Three takeaways from USA vs. South Sudan

Team USA secured its second straight win in the Olympics on Wednesday, overcoming South Sudan 103-86. Steve Kerr's team looked vastly improved from its performance against Serbia on Sunday, with more fluidity to its approach on both sides of the ball.

Here are three takeaways from the contest.

1. Bam Adebayo was the most impactful player on the floor

Bam Adebayo finished the contest with 18 points, seven rebounds, one assist, one steal and two blocks. He shot 80% from the floor and hit 2-of-3 from deep. His physicality, mobility and explosiveness around the rim made him an integral member of the rotation as the U.S. looked to outwork a gritty, well-trained South Sudan roster.

Under Erik Spoelstra, Adebayo is often utilized as a creation hub on the perimeter. With a shorter three-point line, the veteran big has been empowered to take some open shots and is showing an upside that could change the trajectory of his career. 

2. Devin Booker's playmaking is a key cog in Team USA's offensive approach

The Phoenix Suns have been force-feeding Devin Booker playmaking opportunities over the past few years. As such, he's taken steady leaps as an on-ball creator, both in transition and in the halfcourt. He was a primary initiator for the point-guard-less Suns last season. Now, with Team USA, Booker's playmaking is unlocking their offense.

Booker ended the contest with six dimes to his name. His value to the star-studded roster is undoubtedly in his ability to create gaps with his scoring gravity before making smart reads. 

3. Jayson Tatum's role is vastly different from what he's used to.

After getting benched in the opening game against Serbia, Jayson Tatum was back in Kerr's starting lineup for the South Sudan game. However, his role is vastly different from what he's accustomed to with the Boston Celtics. Tatum rarely had the opportunity to initiate the offense or attack off the dribble. The shots he was afforded were also outside of his comfort zone.

Due to the amount of talent on the U.S. roster, Tatum must adjust to what's being asked of him. Otherwise, he's going to have multiple ineffective performances throughout the Olympics.