Fans harshly criticized Caitlin Clark’s omission from the United States’ Olympic team. Many rallied for the Indiana Fever rookie to be included on the team, arguing Clark’s presence would help get more eyes on the team.

A day before the U.S. women’s team started its campaign, U.S. Olympics and Paralympics Committee CEO Sarah Hirshland was asked about Clark’s snub. Hirshland defended the selections and omissions, saying she trusts the committee to do what’s best for the program.

“When you look at the whole thing in totality, I would say USA Basketball has had a very disciplined process with people who know more about the sport of women’s basketball than anyone else in the world. And I trust that they know exactly what they’re doing,” Hirshland said.

Team WNBA forward Angel Reese (5) sets a pick for Team WNBA guard Caitlin Clark (22) during the WNBA All Star Game against U.S. Women’s National Team at Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, on July 20, 2024.

© Joe Camporeale–USA TODAY Sports

The common argument used by Clark’s defenders is her popularity will help further women’s basketball. While that may be true, Team USA’s top priority in the Olympics is winning. It relies more on the chemistry between their core group of players.

That formula has worked perfectly for the U.S. in women’s basketball. It has won seven straight golds at the Olympics, and most of the players on the 2024 roster participated in the Tokyo tournament as well.

Clark is talented, yes. But it’s clear Team USA’s vision does not need her … yet. The Fever star will almost certainly be part of the Olympic team at some point in her career.