Jazz C Walker Kessler Earns Expanded Playing Time in Team USA Win

Unfortunately for Utah Jazz fans, the on-floor action seen from promising C Walker Kessler during the 2023 FIBA World Cup has been extremely minimal. Whether it be in an official game, or even a meaningless exhibition, the opportunity to play has been pretty hard to come by.

However, things changed during Team USA’s dominating win vs. Greece today. After a commanding 109-81 win vs. a Giannis Antetokounmpo-less Greek squad, the big man finally obtained a reasonable share of playing time.

Appearing in just five minutes, Kessler managed to put up 4 points on 2-4 shooting, accompanied with a rebound and two blocks.

Number 0 must have never watched a single Walker Kessler game in his life smh pic.twitter.com/eL8V1HJB5G
— Caleb Hager (@LebbyLayups) August 18, 2023

Now, getting five minutes played is nothing to throw a parade over, but it is a step in the right direction. After a few DNPs haunted Kessler leading into this one, it’s refreshing for once to see some actual game time in the prestigious World Cup.

Putting together a productive performance with such limited time to showcase it could be the answer to boosting his stock on this roster moving forward. With the unique skillset of size and defensive ability, Kessler brings to the table, there is a role to be had on this team despite the star talent ahead of him.

Kessler is not alone in lacking sufficient time on the floor, as New Orleans Pelicans All-Star F Brandon Ingram recently voiced frustrations about his lessened impact. On a talented and crowded roster like Team USA, players get forced to make difficult sacrifices in their existing playstyle and role.

Brandon Ingram admits he’s a little frustrated

“This is totally different than what I am used to. The team is winning right now, so I can’t be selfish thinking about myself. But it’s a little frustrating right now for me, and I’m just trying to figure out ways I can be… pic.twitter.com/LWXbIRzmK3
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) August 27, 2023

Even without a spot in the starting five, the valuable experience that comes with being a part of the national team is crucial to Kessler’s growth. Paired and competing alongside the NBA elite can be the perfect route to enhancing and polishing his game for year two.

Team USA’s next contest will be against Jordan, led by former NBA first-round pick Rondae Hollis-Jefferson on Wednesday, August 30th. After a 39-point showing against New Zealand, Hollis-Jefferson could put the league back on notice with another standout performance vs. Team USA.

Kessler can eye another chance to make the most of his time in this tournament, with additional minutes hopeful to be added to his plate.

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