Tatum’s scoring spree was nothing short of spectacular, as he notched a season-high 35 points, shooting an impressive 13-for-23 from the field, including a 5-for-12 performance from beyond the arc. Adding to his offensive brilliance, Tatum contributed seven assists and six rebounds, showcasing his versatility on the court. A notable highlight was his phenomenal fourth-quarter surge, where he accounted for seventeen crucial points.
The gravity of Tatum’s performance did not go unnoticed, particularly by Celtics legend Paul Pierce. The 2008 NBA Finals MVP was so impressed that he boldly declared Tatum as the current best American player in the NBA. This accolade places Tatum in the spotlight, even against the formidable competition presented by international stars such as Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, and Joel Embiid—all born overseas.
However, Tatum’s quest for the title of the best American-born player faces a formidable challenger in Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry. Curry, who led the Warriors to victory over Tatum’s Celtics in the NBA Finals just two seasons ago, is enjoying a scorching start to the current season. The two-time MVP is averaging a career-high 30.7 points per game, showcasing a remarkable 44.6 percent accuracy from beyond the three-point line.
Tatum’s consistently stellar performances have earned him a spot on the All-NBA first team for the past two years. This season, he is maintaining an impressive stat line, averaging 28.4 points, 8.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, while achieving a career-best 52.6 percent shooting from the field.
The debate between Tatum and Curry for the title of the best American player adds an intriguing layer to the NBA narrative. Basketball enthusiasts eagerly await their first matchup of the season on December 19 in Golden State, anticipating a showdown that could potentially settle the debate and determine the frontrunner for this prestigious title. Until then, the discussion around these two outstanding players continues to captivate fans and analysts alike.