The number one pick of the WNBA was not selected to represent the US in the Olympics

As we gear up for the Olympics starting this Friday, July 26, one of the most buzzed-about topics in women’s basketball is the absence of Caitlin Clark from the USA Women’s National Team roster. It’s been over a month since the 12-player list was announced, and Clark’s omission continues to be a major talking point, overshadowing even the players who made the cut.

Clark’s impact on the sport is undeniable. Her presence has significantly boosted TV ratings, merchandise sales, and game attendance. Some believe her exclusion is because the committee was worried she might not secure major rotation minutes in a team already stacked with talent. There’s also speculation that Minnesota Lynx’s (16-8) head coach, Cheryl Reeve, might have influenced the decision. Recent comments from Reeve add fuel to this theory. During the Lynx’s home loss to the Indiana Fever, fans were more vocal in their support for Clark, a Minnesota native, than for the home team. Reeve’s comments post-game hinted at some tension.

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The team was chosen by the USA Basketball Women’s National Team Committee, chaired by Jen Rizzotti, and includes Dawn Staley from the University of South Carolina, Bethany Donaphin from the WNBA, and Dan Padover from the Atlanta Dream. While the coach always has a say in player selection, it’s evident that Reeve’s input might have played a role here. While Team USA is heavily favored to win gold, Reeve’s future with the team might hinge on how she handles media questions about Clark’s absence during the Olympics. Of course question about her will come.

In a sport that doesn’t enjoy the same Olympic popularity as its male counterpart, Clark’s inclusion could have drawn unprecedented attention to women’s basketball around the globe. With seven consecutive gold medals and little competition compared to the men’s rapidly globalizing game, bringing Clark along would have been a strategic move. However, what’s done is done, and we can look forward to seeing Clark possibly lead the team in Los Angeles 2028, perhaps with a championship already under her belt.

How Does Clark Stack Up Against Those Who Made the Cut?

Clark made history with the first triple-double by a rookie, and also the first in franchise history. She leads the league with 7.8 assists per game (APG) and ranks in the top 15 with 16.8 points per game (PPG). Adding her 5.8 rebounds per game (RPG), she’s a powerhouse in offensive playmaking. The players selected in her position, however, have higher points per game and their teams boast better records, which could have influenced the committee’s decision.

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The likely starters for the Olympic team include Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty (20-4), who averages 19.4 PPG, 6.2 APG, and 4.3 RPG, and other stars like Kelsey Plum from the champions Las Vegas Aces (16-7) with 18.8 PPG, 4.7 RPG, and 2.3 APG. On the bench, there’s Jackie Young, also from the Aces, with 18.5 PPG, 5.6 APG, and 4.7 RPG, and Jewell Loyd from the Seattle Storm (16-8) who averages 19.7 PPG, 4.0 APG, and 4.6 RPG.

In conclusion, while Clark’s absence is a significant talking point, the selected roster boasts an impressive lineup. As we await the start of the games, the conversation around Clark’s potential future with Team USA and her continued impact on the sport remains a hot topic.