The final roster for the women's basketball team for the 2024 Paris Olympics is set and Caitlin Clark was noticeably not named. It's been a heated topic of discussion, as Clark has brought so much attention to the WNBA. However, the latest rumors may have revealed the reason why Clark was left off Team USA's roster.
Rumors are that WNBA veterans are “concerned about how Caitlin Clark's millions of fans would react to her likely limited playing time on a stacked Olympic roster,” according to Christine Brennan of USA Today Sports. Here's what Brennan reported on the situation:
“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. 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 women's basketball team tended to side with veteran players for the 2024 Olympics. Which makes sense considering most rookies are still developing their game. However, Caitlin Clark has become the face of the WNBA since being drafted by the Indiana Fever. At the very least, she'd bring more eyes to Team USA during the Olympics. Even if she plays a limited role in Paris.
It's certainly an interesting decision for Team USA. However, the men's team follows a similar route when building their Olympic teams, as rookies rarely make the final roster. Even so, Caitlin Clark would probably contribute nicely whenever she's on the court. However, the women's team may feel her limited playing time could become a distraction.
Clark is having a solid rookie campaign, as she's currently averaging 16.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists per game. She's had some struggles throughout the season but that's expected for any rookie in any sports league. We should expect Caitlin Clark to play for Team USA at some point in her career. But we'll have to wait until the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Why Caitlin Clark will win Rookie of the Year
Clark has been stellar for most of her rookie season. There have been some hiccups, especially at the beginning of the season. However, Caitlin Clark is currently leading all rookies in points (16.8 per game) and assists (6.3 per game). Additionally, she's second steals (1.5 per game) with only Angel Reese (1.6 per game) being ahead of her in that category.
If Caitlin Clark keeps this up she will definitely be in the running for the WNBA Rookie of the Year. That would be a great start to her career. But give Clark time and she's bound to improve for the Indiana Fever.
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