Caitlin Clark, the standout rookie of the WNBA, is reportedly not expected to make Team USA’s 12-player roster for the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Despite being the top draft pick this year, Clark is likely to be overlooked in favor of more seasoned players. Head coach Cheryl Reeve and the selection committee are focusing on experienced veterans like A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart, according to The Athletic.
Clark was invited to a training camp with Team USA in April, but couldn’t attend due to her commitment to the NCAA championship game with Iowa. Reflecting on the invite, Clark shared her excitement about the opportunity, stating that representing her country at the Olympics is a dream for any athlete. Nevertheless, she expressed no regrets about prioritizing her college team’s success.
At Iowa, Clark distinguished herself as the all-time leading scorer in NCAA Division I basketball and has quickly become a prominent figure in American sports. Selected first overall by the Indiana Fever in the WNBA draft, Clark has demonstrated her skill with impressive stats, averaging 16.8 points, 6.3 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game. She recently scored a career-high 30 points in a tight victory over the Washington Mystics.
Despite her remarkable performance, Reeve’s strategy seems to lean towards the reliability of veterans as Team USA aims to secure its eighth consecutive Olympic gold medal. Players expected to be named to the squad include Wilson, Stewart, Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, and other experienced stars. This approach underscores a commitment to experience as a key factor in maintaining their dominance in women’s basketball.
The WNBA will pause its season from July 21 to August 14 to accommodate the Olympic schedule, with Team USA kicking off its campaign against Japan on July 29. The team will compete in Group C, facing Germany, Japan, and Belgium. As the Americans strive for their tenth overall gold medal in women’s basketball, the emphasis on veteran players highlights their intent to uphold a legacy of excellence on the international stage.
