Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark’s exclusion from the Team USA basketball roster for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris has sparked outrage among fans, leaving many to wonder why she was overlooked.
A report by Christine Brennan of USA TODAY indicates that there were concerns within Team USA about how Clark’s millions of fans might react to her likely limited playing time on a star-studded roster.
“Two other sources, both long-time U.S. basketball veterans with decades of experience in the women’s game, told USA TODAY Sports Friday that concern over how Clark’s millions of fans would react to what would likely be limited playing time on a stacked roster was a factor in the decision making” Brennan wrote. “If true, that would be an extraordinary admission of the tension that this multi-million-dollar sensation, who signs autographs for dozens of children before and after every game, has caused for the old guard of women’s basketball. The two people spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter.”
The Team USA lineup is undeniably impressive, but Clark’s inclusion, even if she had a minimal role, would undoubtedly enhance the marketing of this premier global sporting event.
Instead, Clark will spend this summer at home, taking advantage of a mid-season Olympic break from the WNBA to rest and cheer for those who made the roster.
In Friday night’s victory over the winless Washington Mystics, Clark tied her career-high with 30 points. In her rookie WNBA season, she is averaging 16.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, with a shooting percentage of 37.3% from the floor.
The Fever will next face the Connecticut Sun on Monday, aiming for their fourth win of the season.
According to sources, Caitlin Clark is not listed on the Team USA women’s basketball roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The roster, as reported, includes:
1. A’ja Wilson
2. Breanna Stewart
3. Diana Taurasi
4. Brittney Griner
5. Alyssa Thomas
6. Napheesa Collier
7. Jewell Loyd
8. Kelsey Plum
9. Jackie Young
10. Sabrina Ionescu
11. Chelsea Gray
12. Kahleah Copper